A herniated disc is a general term for the condition of a bulging or protruding disc that presses on the spinal nerve roots. Hamilton herniated discs are also referred to as spondylosis or degenerative disc disease. It occurs when a disc’s outer layer or annulus fibrosus becomes abnormally thickened and may bulge out through the annulus.
Here are the causes and treatment options for herniated disc
What are the causes of herniated disc?
The condition can be caused by spinal trauma, such as falling on an outstretched hand or severe back pain that does not improve quickly with conservative treatment.
The disc between your bones is a shock absorber that cushions the spinal cord. When there is too much pressure placed on the disc, it can rupture and push out through the protective covering. This can cause extreme pain, weakness, numbness, and even paralysis., See your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms
Treatment options for herniated disc
Surgery is the most common treatment option for herniated discs. If your doctor determines that an operation is necessary, they may recommend one of the following procedures:
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Disc replacement surgery (DRS)
In DRS, a disc fragment is removed from the spine and replaced with a prosthetic material such as a piece of an artificial disc. This procedure effectively relieves symptoms in some patients who have had multiple surgeries over the years.
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Laminotomy
A laminotomy is a form of surgery involving an incision into the center of a disc to remove some of its contents. This procedure aims to relieve pressure on nerve roots and allow them to heal.
The incision provides access to the inflamed nerve roots and allows them to be removed or manipulated. This procedure can also be used to remove damaged bone and soft tissue that may have become entrapped in the herniated disc.
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Artificial disc surgery
The artificial disc is a device that replaces the natural disc, which can become compressed or herniated. It is placed in an area of your back where it will support the damaged portion of your spine. The artificial disc can help relieve pain and improve your range of motion.
What to expect after surgery
After surgery, you will spend some days in the hospital recovering from anesthesia, incisional pain medications, and muscle relaxers. The pain after surgery is typically mild to moderate and may last several weeks or months after surgery.
The recovery period following surgery can be short, but it is important not to rush through it because doing so can increase your risk of complications or re-injury. The recovery routine includes physical therapy, hydrotherapy or water therapy, heat/cold therapy, and stretching exercises at home.
Herniated discs can lead to intense pain and decreased mobility, though there are many treatments available to help reduce the seriousness of these outcomes. With the right treatment, the outlook for patients with herniated discs is very positive. Early diagnosis is key since conditions exacerbated by herniated discs can be just as debilitating as the injury itself. If you are suffering from disc problems, consult Interventional Pain Management Associates to determine the best course of action in your case.
