What is a Herniated Disc
and How is it Treated?

The vertebrae in your spine have sponge-like discs between them that allow for the movement and flexibility of your spine, without causing pain from bone-on-bone friction. These round discs are made up a strong outer layer, and a soft, gel-like inner center. A herniated disc is the displacement of the disc’s center through a crack in the strong outer layer. 

Suffering from pain caused by a herniated disc? Take the first step toward living a pain-free life by using our confidential interactive assessment to start your diagnosis. 

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How Do I Know if I Have a Herniated Disc?

It is common for spinal disc material to degenerate naturally as one ages, causing herniated discs to commonly occur in those between 30 and 50 years old. However, a single excessive strain or injury can cause the onset of a herniated disc to happen at any age, and most frequently occurs in the lower back. Additionally, herniated discs can cause a variety of painful issues, such as pinched nerves or sciatica.

Common Causes of Herniated Discs
While aging is the most common cause of a herniated disc, other causes include:
Common Herniated Disc Symptoms
One of the first signs and symptoms of a herniated disc usually includes pain in the area of the affected disc. This pain can radiate around to the front of your body from the affected area, and is also accompanied by tingling or burning in the buttocks and legs or neck and arms. Aside from pain, tingling and burning, other symptoms of a herniated disc include:
  • Lower back pain
  • Muscle tension
  • Weakness near location of herniated disc
  • Muscle tension
  • Headaches
  • Cramping

If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a herniated disc, use our interactive tool to check your condition, and see how the experts at the Integrated Spine Institute can help. 

How are Herniated Discs Treated?

In most cases, treatment for herniated discs should typically begin with more conservative, non-surgical options.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Herniated Discs
Herniated disc treatment usually begins with a conservative, non-surgical option such as:
  • Physical therapy
  • Activity modification
  • Over-the-counter or prescription medications
  • Epidural Injections
  • Heat/cold therapy
  • Stretching
Surgical Treatments for Herniated Discs

If herniated disc symptoms persist or become severe, surgical treatment may be required. Minimally invasive surgery options include:


Depending on the situation and stage of the herniated disc, surgery could involve removing an area of the herniated disc or the disc entirely. Whether your herniated disc treatment is conservative or surgical, it is important to take the first step by seeking help.

If you suffer from symptoms of a herniated disc and are ready to take the next step to living a pain-free life — try our interactive treatment finder below to find the right treatment for you.

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