Herniated Disc: What It Feels Like and How to Treat It

What does a herniated disc feel like?

A herniated disc can be very painful and cause different sensations, including numbness, tingling or weakness. Some people may experience painful “pins and needles” that feel like prickling or skin crawling. Another common feeling is pain radiating down the leg (sciatica) or arm, depending on the location of the herniated disc.

In some cases, you can have a herniated disc without symptoms.

Causes of a Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is usually the result of gradual age related deterioration or wear and tear. Aging causes the discs to become less flexible and more susceptible to tearing or rupturing, even from a minor injury. It is often difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of a herniated disk.

Factors that may cause or increase the risk of a herniated disk include:

• Weight – Increased body weight causes additional pressure on the discs in the lower back.
• Certain Occupations - People with physically demanding jobs have an increased risk of back issues. In addition, those who sit for long periods of time can put pressure on the spine.
• Genetics – Individuals may inherit a predisposition to develop herniated discs.
• Smoking – Smoking reduces the oxygen supply to discs so they break down more quickly. (Four times faster than nonsmokers)
• A Sedentary Lifestyle - Regular exercise can help prevent this condition.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

The symptoms of a herniated disc vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. A ruptured disc can cause symptoms such as:

• Muscle weakness, tingling and/or numbness in the arms and legs
• Pain from the neck down the arm(s) or just the neck and arms
• Pain down the back and down the leg(s) or just the back and leg(s)
• Pain that worsens with certain positions or activities

Pain may vary in type and intensity.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Herniated Discs

Most herniated discs do not require surgery. A herniated disc can heal on its own over time, but rest and modifying activities can help relieve pain and reduce the risk of aggravating it. “Home remedies can treat minor herniated disc symptoms, but a physician should evaluate persistent pain,” said Dr. Dowling, “Especially if accompanied by neurology symptoms and if there are bowel and bladder issues.”

Nonsurgical treatment options for herniated discs include:

• Cold and heat therapy — Cold therapy, such as ice packs, can help reduce inflammation. Heat therapy, such as heat packs, can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow.
• Epidural steroid injections — Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory medications that can reduce inflammation around an irritated nerve and relieve pain and discomfort.
• Muscle relaxers — Your physician may recommend a medication to relax the muscles, ease pain and reduce spasms.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) — If your herniated disc is causing inflammation or swelling, NSAIDS help treat inflammation and relieve pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy — Physical therapy can help build strength and flexibility in the muscles that support the affected area.

The best treatment for a herniated disc is usually a combination of different conservative methods and patience. Seventy-five percent of herniated discs resolve within two to twelve weeks.

When is surgical treatment necessary for a herniated disc?

Surgery is usually a last resort for herniated disc treatment. If nonsurgical methods do not relieve your symptoms, or there is a significant neurological issue like weakness or bowel and bladder dysfunction, your physician may recommend surgery.

 Additional symptoms that may require surgery include:

• Difficulty standing or walking
• Severe pain that does not improve with conservative interventions

Types of Minimally-Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive spine surgery may be an option for patients who need surgery. It reduces post-operative pain and has a shorter recovery period.

There are different types of surgery available, including:

• Artificial Disc Replacement — In this procedure, your surgeon replaces your damaged disc with an artificial one.
• Discectomy — This surgery involves removing the herniated section of the disc to relieve pain caused by pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. The procedure does not replace the removed disc tissue. It is most typically performed for lumbar or lower back pain.

How to Prevent a Herniated Disc

Once you have a herniated disc, you will want to avoid it from happening again. You can prevent a future herniated disc with a few lifestyle modifications, such as:

• Exercising regularly — regular physical activity can help strengthen the back and core muscles to prevent a future herniated disc. Strengthening your trunk muscles supports the spine and helps keep it stabilized.
• Maintaining good posture — keep your spine straight and aligned with your shoulders back. Your head and neck should be in line with your torso. Avoid slouching for long periods of time, especially when working at a computer or desk. Sit tall with your feet flat on the floor and your back against your chair.
• Practicing proper lifting techniques — bend your knees when lifting heavy objects to take the strain off your lower back.

A herniated disc can be a painful experience, but you can find relief with the right treatment and lifestyle modifications. Whether through physical therapy, medication or surgery, there are options to help you manage your symptoms and prevent future injuries.