Herniated Disc Treatment in Fort Myers
A herniated disc can cause localized neck or back pain, but symptoms often become more disruptive when the damaged disc irritates or compresses a nearby nerve. This may result in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness extending into an arm or leg.
Dr. Franco Vigna provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for cervical and lumbar herniated discs. Treatment is based on the location of the herniation, severity of the nerve compression, duration of the symptoms, and effect on the patient’s daily life.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Spinal discs sit between the vertebrae and help absorb pressure while allowing the spine to bend and move. Each disc contains a soft center surrounded by a stronger outer wall.
A herniated disc occurs when material from inside the disc pushes through a weakened or torn portion of the outer layer. The displaced material may inflame or compress a spinal nerve.
Herniated discs are also sometimes described as slipped, ruptured, or protruding discs. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, the size and shape of the disc abnormality can vary.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The symptoms depend on where the damaged disc is located.
Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms
- A herniated disc in the neck may cause:
- Neck or shoulder blade pain
- Pain traveling through the shoulder and arm
- Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers
- Weakness in the arm, hand, or grip
- Symptoms that change with neck position
Lumbar Herniated Disc
- Symptoms
- A herniated disc in the lower back may cause:
- Lower back pain
- Pain traveling through the buttock and leg
- Sciatica
- Numbness or tingling in the foot
- Weakness in the leg or ankle
- Pain that worsens while sitting, bending, coughing, or lifting
How Herniated Discs Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a review of the symptoms and a physical examination. Dr. Vigna may test strength, reflexes, sensation, walking pattern, and movements that reproduce the pain.
An MRI can show the location of the herniation and whether it is affecting a nerve. X-rays may also be used to evaluate alignment, arthritis, or instability. Imaging findings are interpreted together with the patient’s actual symptoms.
Herniated Disc Treatment Options
Many patients improve without surgery. Initial care may include activity modification, medication, physical therapy, guided exercises, or spinal injections.
- When symptoms persist, treatment options may include:
- Minimally invasive discectomy
- Endoscopic or microscopic decompression
- Cervical disc replacement
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
- Lumbar fusion when instability is also present
- Regenerative disc procedures for carefully selected conditions
Surgery may be considered sooner when a patient has significant weakness, severe nerve compression, spinal cord involvement, or worsening neurological symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a herniated disc improve without surgery?
Yes. Many herniated discs improve through time and conservative care. Surgery is generally reserved for persistent symptoms, progressive neurological problems, or severe compression.
What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?
A bulging disc typically extends outward across a broader portion of the disc. A herniation involves a more focused area where internal disc material pushes through a weakened section of the outer wall.
Can a herniated disc cause permanent nerve damage?
Prolonged or severe nerve compression can sometimes cause lasting weakness, numbness, or other neurological problems. New or progressing weakness should be evaluated promptly.
When does a herniated disc require surgery?
Surgery may be recommended when appropriate nonsurgical treatment has failed or when the patient has progressive weakness, severe pain, spinal cord compression, or significant loss of function.
Can a herniated disc return after treatment?
Schedule a Herniated Disc Evaluation
Contact OrthoKagan to meet with Dr. Franco Vigna and receive a personalized treatment plan for cervical or lumbar disc symptoms.