Expert Herniated Disc Treatment in NJ & NY
At the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, we recognize the debilitating impact of a herniated disc. The discomfort, the restriction of movement, and the disruption of daily life can greatly affect your well-being. Led by the esteemed spine surgeon, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, we commit ourselves to a comprehensive range of treatments and personalized care plans to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, refers to a condition affecting the intervertebral discs, which serve as shock absorbers between the vertebrae of the spine. These discs have a tough, fibrous outer layer, and a soft, jelly-like interior. A herniated disc occurs when the inner layer pushes out through a tear in the outer layer, potentially irritating or compressing nearby nerves.
The condition most frequently occurs in the lower back, particularly the lumbar spine, but can also occur in the neck or cervical spine. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the herniation and whether it is pressing on a nerve. They may include pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the body where the nerve travels.
It's worth noting that not all herniated discs cause symptoms; in fact, some people might not even be aware they have this condition until it is discovered during a routine physical exam or imaging study.
Common Causes of a Herniated Disc
Aging: As we age, our intervertebral discs lose some of their water content, which makes them less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist.
Physical Strain: Lifting heavy objects, especially without using the proper techniques or without engaging the leg muscles, can put too much pressure on the lower back and result in a herniated disc.
Trauma: Accidents or injuries can cause enough pressure on the spine to result in a herniated disc. This could be from a fall, a sudden blow, or an accident.
Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyles or occupations that require heavy lifting or driving for long periods can increase the risk. In addition, obesity puts extra stress on the discs in your lower back, making them more susceptible to herniation.
Physical Strain: Lifting heavy objects, especially without using the proper techniques or without engaging the leg muscles, can put too much pressure on the lower back and result in a herniated disc.
Trauma: Accidents or injuries can cause enough pressure on the spine to result in a herniated disc. This could be from a fall, a sudden blow, or an accident.
Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyles or occupations that require heavy lifting or driving for long periods can increase the risk. In addition, obesity puts extra stress on the discs in your lower back, making them more susceptible to herniation.
Is Herniated Disc Treatment Right for You?
Whether you are a candidate for herniated disc treatment largely depends on the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. If symptoms are severe enough to limit your daily activities or affect your quality of life, then you are likely a candidate for herniated disc treatment. It’s also important to note that symptoms such as loss of bowel or bladder control, or severe or increasing weakness or numbness, are considered emergency situations and require immediate medical attention.
However, not all herniated discs cause symptoms, and not all require treatment. If you have a herniated disc but do not experience any symptoms, or if your symptoms are mild and do not affect your daily life, we may recommend a watch-and-wait approach. In such cases, you might not be a current candidate for herniated disc treatment, but your condition would be monitored for any changes.
However, not all herniated discs cause symptoms, and not all require treatment. If you have a herniated disc but do not experience any symptoms, or if your symptoms are mild and do not affect your daily life, we may recommend a watch-and-wait approach. In such cases, you might not be a current candidate for herniated disc treatment, but your condition would be monitored for any changes.
Our Approach to Herniated Disc Treatment
We understand that a herniated disc can significantly impact your life, and we are dedicated to helping you find relief. Through precise diagnosis and personalized treatment, you will receive continual support and education to effectively manage your condition.
Working together, we will create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals. Dr. Bo and his team will guide you at each step, helping you achieve your desired outcome.
Herniated Disc Treatment
Patient Journey
Explore the steps to a pain free you.
Symptoms
Neck pain can manifest in several ways.
- Chronic Neck or Back Pain
- Numbness or Tingling
- Radiating Pain in Arms or Legs
It Hurts!
Diagnosis
Schedule a consultation
with Dr. Bo for a personalized assessment and treatment plan using advanced diagnostic techniques.
Schedule a Consultation
Non-Surgical Options
Conservative treatments as a first attempt to reduce pain can include:
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
- Injections
Conservative Treatments
Surgical Options
In severe cases, surgery is sometimes recommended. Common procedures are:
- Discectomy
- Laminectomy
- Microdiscectomy
Intervention
Herniated Disc Treatment
Patient Journey
Explore the steps to a pain free you.
Symptoms
Neck pain can manifest in several ways.
- Chronic Neck or Back Pain
- Numbness or Tingling
- Radiating Pain in Arms or Legs
Symptoms
It Hurts!
Diagnosis
Schedule a consultation
with Dr. Bo for a personalized assessment and treatment plan using advanced diagnostic techniques.
Diagnosis
Schedule a Consultation
Non-Surgical Options
Conservative treatments as a first attempt to reduce pain can include:
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
- Injections
Non-Surgical Options
Conservative Treatments
Surgical Options
In severe cases, surgery is sometimes recommended. Common procedures are:
- Discectomy
- Laminectomy
- Microdiscectomy
Surgical Options
Intervention
Advanced Diagnostics
for Herniated Discs
Effective care begins with an Accurate Diagnosis.
Physical Exams
A physical examination allows Dr. Bo to assess your muscle strength, reflexes, and the severity of your spinal condition.
X-Rays
These provide clear images of the spine, assisting physicians in detecting issues such as spinal degeneration or deformities causing pain.
MRI/CT Scans
These scans offer detailed images of the back, enabling doctors to identify problems such as spinal stenosis and disc degeneration.
The Most Trusted Spine Surgeon in NY & NJ
Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, affectionately known as Dr. Bo, is a top-rated spine surgeon based in the NY/NJ metropolitan area. He leads The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, providing patient-centered care and demonstrating a commitment to excellence. Besides his clinical work, Dr. Bo is a respected researcher, a recipient of prestigious awards, and an advocate for preventive care and minimally invasive procedures. His patient-centered approach extends to educating patients and involving them in their treatment decisions.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Dr. Bo has over 500 5-star reviews.
Our commitment to patient satisfaction and positive outcomes is evident in our past patient testimonials and their improved quality of life.
Herniated Disc Treatment FAQs
Answers to Common Questions. Click to Learn More
Symptoms can vary, but they often include back or neck pain, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and radiating pain in the arms or legs.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and a review of your medical history. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may also be used to provide a detailed view of your spine and locate the herniated disc.
Non-surgical treatments can include physical therapy, pain management techniques, epidural steroid injections, and lifestyle changes such as improved posture and regular exercise.
Surgery is usually considered if non-surgical treatments haven't worked after a reasonable period, or if symptoms are severe. Common procedures include discectomy, laminectomy, and microdiscectomy.
Keeping a healthy weight, maintaining good posture, exercising regularly, and avoiding heavy lifting or sudden movements can help prevent herniated discs.
Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient. Some people may return to normal activities within a few weeks, while others may require several months.
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