What is Disc Herniation?

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Find out if you're a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery

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What is Disc Herniation?

In order to understand disc herniation, it is first necessary to know the structure of a spinal disc. Intervertebral discs are made up of two layers: the outer layer or annulus fibrosus, and the inner layer or nucleus pulposus. The outer layer is a tough, cartilaginous substance, while the inner layer is soft and has the consistency of jelly. The tough outer layer protects and contains the inner layer, and together they serve as the “cushion” between the vertebrae above and below.

A herniated discis a condition in which the outer layer splits, allowing the inner layer to escape and leak out, reducing the amount of cushion and space between vertebrae. Not only does this mean that it can be harder to bend back and forth, but if the inner layer oozes in the right direction, it can put pressure on a nearby nerve root, irritating it and causing pain, weakness, pins and needles, and numbness.

Of all disc herniation cases, 90% will occur at vertebrae L4 and L5, which are in the lower back or lumbar region of the spine. Significantly fewer occur in the cervical area or upper back. This is because most weight is supported in the lower back, and this area is also most heavily involved in twisting and lifting.

If you’re suffering from the after-effects of a disc herniation, then you can take heart in knowing that most resolve themselves within six months. Your doctor may advise some conservative treatment techniques like painkillers, anti-inflammatory injections, rest, and physical therapy to help manage and minimize your symptoms. If those don’t work however, and you continue to suffer from symptoms that negatively impact the quality of your life, your doctor may tell you that surgery is your only option.

In this case, you should know that there is an alternative to traditional back and neck surgery. Laser Spine Institute offers several disc herniation procedures that use minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and endoscopic tools to correct the affected disc, minimizing impact to the body and substantially reducing the time necessary for recovery. Because this procedure causes much less trauma to the body and uses only local anesthesia rather than general, it is open to some people who aren’t eligible for traditional surgery because of age or health concerns.

To learn more about our procedures and find out if you’re a candidate, contact LSI today. One of our doctors will review your CT scan or MRI free of charge to determine eligibility.

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