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Herniated Disc Treatment in Bhubaneswar

Herniated Discs Treatment

Herniated Disc Treatment in Bhubaneswar

Herniated discs, also known as ruptured or slipped discs, occur when spinal discs, which are round-shaped cushions that are present between the vertebral bones and act as shock absorbers, protrude through the outer ring and press the nerves, causing extreme pain and numbness. Common regions where herniated discs occur are the lower back (lumbar spine) or the neck (cervical spine).

Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a premier institution with world-class medical experts with tremendous experience and expertise in addressing herniated discs of varying severity. Our state-of-the-art instruments and equipment, along with a highly skilled medical professional team, aid in providing our patients with comprehensive and individualised treatment, ensuring optimal patient outcomes with minimal complications.

FAQ's

People between the ages of 30 and 50 are prone to developing herniated discs, with males being affected twice as much as women. Facts that contribute to developing herniating discs include:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting in the same position
  • Overweight
  • Lifting heavy objects and performing strenuous activities
  • Repeated bending or twisting motions associated with work, sports, or hobbies
  • Smoking
  • Genetics
  • Frequent driving

A herniated disc can occur in any area of the spine, although it is more common in the lower back region, called the herniated lumbar disc. Herniated discs impact the spinal nerves and surrounding muscles, adding pressure to the nearby nerves. Common signs and symptoms for both lumbar and cervical herniated discs include:

  • Back pain

  • Sensations like tingling, burning, or aching in the affected area

  • Muscle weakness

  • Pain in the shoulder blades

  • Pain that radiates to the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers

  • Neck pain, especially when bending or turning

  • Increased pain after prolonged standing or sitting

  • Pain and discomfort when walking short distances

  • Increased pain at night with specific movements.

Your initial consultation with the doctor involves a physical examination, where your doctor examines and checks for your reflexes, the location of pain, muscle strength, range of motion, your ability to walk, and sensitivity. Your doctor will also enquire about your medical history, past accidents or trauma, symptoms, and health condition. Your doctor might recommend imaging tests if there is any indication of neurological symptoms. Imaging tests include:

  • Computer tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan 
  • X-ray scans
  • Discogram
  • Myelogram

Surgery is suggested if your symptoms of a herniated disc do not subside in six weeks or if they are affecting your muscle function. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may conduct the following surgeries:

  • Laminotomy or Laminectomy: The Laminotomy procedure involves relieving pressure by making a small incision in the lamina and removing a piece of bone with the help of a microscope. While Laminotomy is minimally invasive, Laminectomy is a complex and invasive surgery involving the removal of the entire lamina to minimise pressure around the surrounding nerves.

  • Discectomy or Microdiscectomy: Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove a small portion of the herniated disc that compresses the nerve in the spine using a microscope. In a Discectomy procedure, a larger incision is made to remove a part or all of the herniated discs that press against the nerve. Discectomy can be combined with Laminectomy procedures, facilitating space for surrounding nerves and muscles.

  • Artificial Disc Surgery: A procedure where a damaged herniated disc is replaced with an artificial one.

  • Spinal Fusion Surgery: Aims to stabilise the spine by joining two or more vertebral bones. Spinal Fusion Surgery can be combined with Laminectomy and Discectomy procedures.

To manage pain and discomfort at home while undergoing herniated disc treatment, you can:

  • Take a complete rest for a few days. However, avoid resting for longer periods to prevent stiffness.

  • Consume an over-the-counter (OTC) drug such as ibuprofen 

  • Apply heat or ice therapy to the affected region

  • Avoid heavy and strenuous activities 

Most herniated discs do not need major treatments, are usually recovered on their own, and are commonly done by limiting your movement and activities. Conventional treatments for herniated discs include the following:

  • Using medications, such as OTC drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, muscle relaxants, and nerve pain medications.

  • Physical therapy helps in addressing herniated discs by employing certain exercises that can improve your mobility.

  • Doctors often suggest injections as a means to alleviate symptoms associated with various types of herniated discs. Common injections include epidural injections and spiral nerve injections.

  • Surgery is recommended in severe cases of herniated discs that exhibit major symptoms such as muscle weakness, persistent pain, mobility issues, and an uncontrolled bladder and bowel.

  • Use proper techniques and methods for lifting and handling heavy items.

  • Maintenance and management of a healthy lifestyle and weight.

  • Practice good posture during your work hours or if your work requires prolonged sitting or standing.

  • Stretching often helps with refreshments. Take stretching breaks if your work demands sitting for long periods of time.

  • Exercise regularly, and focus on workouts that enhance your back and abdominal muscles. Regular exercise facilitates mobility and supports your spine.

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