Herniated Disc Treatment in Brandon, FL
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, as the protruding disc material can press on nearby nerves. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, approximately 90% of herniated discs occur in the lower back (lumbar spine), but they can also occur in the neck (cervical spine). Herniated discs are a common cause of chronic back pain, affecting roughly 2% of the population at some point in their lives.
What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?
Individuals with a herniated disc often experience a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity. Common symptoms include sharp or burning pain in the affected area, which may radiate down the arms or legs if the herniation is pressing on a nerve. This pain is often exacerbated by movements such as bending, lifting, or twisting. Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the limbs. In severe cases, individuals may experience loss of bladder or bowel control, which requires immediate medical attention.
How is a Herniated Disc Different from a Bulging Disc?
While both herniated and bulging discs involve issues with the intervertebral discs, they are distinct conditions. A bulging disc occurs when the outer layer of the disc remains intact but protrudes outward, often without causing significant pain or nerve compression. In contrast, a herniated disc involves a rupture in the outer layer, allowing the inner gel-like substance to escape and potentially irritate nearby nerves. Bulging discs are often considered a precursor to herniation and are more common with age-related degeneration.
How Do You Test to See If You Have a Herniated Disc or Bulging Disc?
Diagnosing a herniated or bulging disc typically involves a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider will assess your range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength. They may also perform specific tests to identify nerve involvement, such as the straight leg raise test for lumbar disc issues.
Imaging Tests:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This is the most commonly used imaging test for diagnosing disc problems. MRI scans provide detailed images of the spine, allowing healthcare providers to see the extent of disc herniation or bulging and any associated nerve compression.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan can also provide detailed images of the spine and is sometimes used in conjunction with a myelogram, where a contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal to enhance the visibility of the spinal structures.
X-rays: While X-rays cannot show herniated or bulging discs, they can help rule out other causes of back pain, such as fractures or tumors.
How Do You Treat a Herniated or Bulging Disc?
Treatment options for herniated or bulging discs vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the patient. Here are some common treatment methods:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches designed to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can help manage symptoms.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief by delivering steroids directly to the affected area.
- Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments and manipulations can alleviate pressure on the nerves and improve spinal alignment.
Surgical Treatments:
- Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the herniated portion of the disc.
- Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
What is the Discseel Procedure for Herniated Disc Treatment?
The Discseel procedure is an innovative, minimally invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from herniated discs. Unlike traditional surgical methods, Discseel aims to repair the damaged disc by injecting a biologic substance called fibrin into the disc. Fibrin is a natural protein involved in blood clotting and tissue repair. When injected into the disc, it creates a seal that prevents further leakage of the inner gel-like material and promotes healing of the outer layer. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief through conventional treatments and are looking for an alternative to invasive surgery. By addressing the root cause of the disc herniation, Discseel offers the potential for long-term pain relief and improved spinal function.
Why is Discseel Preferred Over Spine Surgery?
Discseel is often preferred over traditional spine surgery for several reasons. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, 20 to 40% of back surgeries fail, a phenomenon known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). The likelihood of failure increases with subsequent surgeries, with only 30% of second back surgeries being successful. In contrast, Discseel offers a less invasive alternative with a lower risk of complications and a higher success rate. Patients undergoing Discseel experience shorter recovery times, reduced post-procedure pain, and a lower likelihood of needing additional treatments. This makes Discseel an attractive option for individuals seeking effective, long-term relief from herniated disc symptoms without the risks associated with traditional surgery.
How Does Discseel Work?
Discseel works by utilizing the body’s natural healing processes to repair the damaged disc. The procedure begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of the disc damage and confirm the suitability of the patient for the treatment. During the procedure, a biologic fibrin sealant is injected into the affected disc under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precise placement. The fibrin sealant forms a scaffold that promotes the regeneration of the outer disc layer, effectively sealing any tears or fissures. This prevents further leakage of the inner disc material and reduces pressure on the surrounding nerves. Over time, the fibrin scaffold is absorbed by the body, leaving behind a repaired and strengthened disc. Patients typically experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within weeks of the procedure, with continued improvement over the following months.
What is Fibrin and How is it Used in the Discseel Treatment?
Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the body’s natural healing process. It is a key component of blood clots, helping to stop bleeding and initiate tissue repair. In the context of the Discseel procedure, fibrin is used as a biologic sealant to repair damaged intervertebral discs. The fibrin sealant is derived from human blood plasma and is carefully processed to ensure its safety and efficacy. When injected into the damaged disc, the fibrin forms a mesh-like structure that adheres to the disc tissue, sealing any tears or fissures. This not only prevents further leakage of the inner disc material but also provides a scaffold for new tissue growth. The result is a repaired and strengthened disc that can better support the spine and alleviate pressure on the nerves. The use of fibrin in the Discseel procedure represents a significant advancement in the treatment of herniated discs, offering a minimally invasive solution that harnesses the body’s natural healing abilities.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we specialize in providing advanced, minimally invasive therapies using living cells to heal dysfunctional and damaged tissues caused by trauma, genetics, or degenerative diseases. Our comprehensive approach includes cell therapy orthobiologics, image-guided procedures, interventional treatments, functional rehabilitation, integrative medicine, laboratory processing, lifestyle medicine, nutritional counseling, peptide therapy, PRP therapy, supplementation, and weight loss services. We are committed to not only alleviating pain but also improving long-term quality of life and promoting health and wellbeing.
For individuals seeking advanced, minimally invasive solutions for tissue damage due to trauma, genetics, or degenerative diseases, Orthobiologics Associates offers a range of innovative treatments designed to enhance healing and improve overall quality of life. Whether you are an active adult looking to maintain your mobility or an aging individual seeking relief from chronic pain, our personalized care plans focus on healing, rehabilitation, and lifestyle improvements to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
