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Do I Have a Herniated Disc?

Photo: Back Pain

As one of the most common causes of neck and back pain, many people are curious to know if their discomfort is due to a herniated disc. This condition can develop due to many reasons, including injury and wear and tear over time. Fortunately, in many cases a herniated disc can often be effectively treated at our practice using non-surgical methods. In the event a surgical approach is recommended, our board certified orthopaedic surgeon, Michael Dolphin, DO, is trained in the latest techniques to optimize your results.

Sciatica, one of the most common symptoms of a herniated disc, feels like numbness or pain shooting down one or both legs (or arms, if it stems from a herniated disc in the neck). It’s often described as feeling like a shock of electricity. Weakness and tingling may also be felt in these areas. If the ruptured disc is located in the neck (cervical spine), you may also feel a burning sensation in the neck, shoulder, shoulder blade, or arm (on one or both sides).

Pain medication, anti-inflammatories, and epidural steroid injections can often provide significant relief of symptoms. Physical therapy can also reduce pain and improve function, as well as reduce the likelihood of re-injury. For more information about herniated discs and treatment options, we encourage you to speak with our skilled and knowledgeable team.