A herniated disc occurs when a portion of the vertebral disc ruptures. This ruptured portion may push on nerves in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar areas.
This pressure on the nerves can often lead to numbness and pain. Smaller herniations are sometimes called protrusions.
Medications and non operative treatments (physical therapy) are sometimes needed. Occasionally epidural injections are indicated for pain relief. Surgery can be considered for those who do not improve.
The ruptured disc is removed. It is then replaced by a bone graft. An anterior cervical plate is implanted for stability.
The spinous process and lamina are removed to decrease pressure on the spinal cord. Instrumentation may be used to increase post-operative stability.
Removal of herniated portion of the disc relieves the pressure on the painful nerve.
For more information on Herniated Discs, visit UnderstandSpineSurgery.com.