Herniated Disc Treatment in Dunedin, FL
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, often referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner gel-like core of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, as the extruded material can press on nearby nerves. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, herniated discs are most common in the lumbar spine (lower back) but can also occur in the cervical spine (neck). The prevalence of lumbar disc herniation is estimated to be around 1-3% of the general population, with men aged 30-50 being most at risk.
What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?
The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary widely depending on the location and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: Often described as sharp or burning, the pain can radiate from the affected area to other parts of the body, such as the legs or arms. This is known as radicular pain or sciatica when it affects the legs.
- Numbness and Tingling: These sensations may occur in the regions served by the compressed nerves.
- Weakness: Muscular weakness in the affected areas can make it difficult to perform everyday activities.
- Loss of Reflexes: Diminished reflexes in the knee or ankle can also be an indicator of a herniated disc.
Patients often report that their symptoms worsen with certain movements, such as bending or twisting, and may find relief when lying down or reclining.
How is a Herniated Disc Different from a Bulging Disc?
While both conditions involve the spinal discs, a herniated disc and a bulging disc are not the same. A bulging disc occurs when the disc protrudes out of its normal boundary but remains intact. This condition is often less severe and may not cause symptoms unless the bulge compresses a nerve. In contrast, a herniated disc involves a tear in the outer layer of the disc, allowing the inner gel-like substance to escape and potentially irritate nearby nerves. This difference in the extent of damage often results in more pronounced symptoms in cases of herniation compared to bulging discs.
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 medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Here are the common methods used:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will check for signs of nerve damage, such as muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and diminished reflexes. They may also perform specific maneuvers to elicit symptoms.
- Imaging Tests:MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This is the most effective imaging method for diagnosing herniated discs. It provides detailed images of the spinal discs and nerves.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Often used if an MRI is not possible, a CT scan can also provide detailed images of the spine.
- X-rays: While X-rays cannot show herniated discs, they can rule out other causes of back pain, such as fractures.
- Nerve Tests:Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and can help identify nerve compression.
How Do You Treat a Herniated or Bulging Disc?
There are several treatment options available for herniated and bulging discs, each with its own benefits:
- Physical Therapy:Benefits: Strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and reduces pain.
- Medications:Benefits: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers can help manage symptoms.
- Epidural Steroid Injections:Benefits: Reduces inflammation and provides temporary pain relief.
- Chiropractic Care:Benefits: Spinal adjustments can alleviate pressure on nerves.
- Acupuncture:Benefits: May reduce pain and improve function.
- Surgery:Benefits: Considered when conservative treatments fail, surgery can remove the herniated portion of the disc.
What is the Discseel Procedure for Herniated Disc Treatment?
The Discseel procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to repair herniated or bulging discs using a biologic material called fibrin. Unlike traditional surgical methods, which often involve removing part of the disc, the Discseel procedure aims to preserve and restore the disc’s natural structure. During the procedure, fibrin is injected into the damaged disc under fluoroscopic guidance. The fibrin acts as a sealant, promoting the regeneration of the disc tissue and preventing further leakage of the inner gel-like substance. This innovative approach not only addresses the immediate problem but also aims to enhance the long-term health of the spine.
Why is Discseel Preferred Over Spine Surgery?
The American Society of Anesthesiologists estimates that 20 to 40% of back surgeries fail, and the success rate drops even further with repeated surgeries. One study found that only 30% of second back surgeries are successful. These statistics highlight the risks associated with traditional spine surgery, making minimally invasive alternatives like the Discseel procedure increasingly attractive. Patients often prefer the Discseel procedure because it offers a lower risk of complications, a shorter recovery time, and the potential for more sustainable long-term outcomes. Additionally, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return to their daily activities more quickly.
How Does Discseel Work?
The Discseel procedure begins with a thorough evaluation to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate. Once confirmed, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a needle is carefully inserted into the affected disc. Fibrin, a biologic sealant, is then injected into the disc. The fibrin works by sealing any tears in the outer layer of the disc, preventing further leakage of the inner gel-like material. Over time, the fibrin promotes the regeneration of the disc tissue, helping to restore the disc’s natural function and alleviate symptoms. The entire procedure typically takes about an hour, and most patients can go home the same day.
What is Fibrin and How is it Used in the Discseel Treatment?
Fibrin is a natural protein involved in the blood clotting process. It forms a mesh-like structure that helps to seal wounds and promote healing. In the Discseel procedure, fibrin is used as a biologic sealant to repair tears in the outer layer of the spinal disc. When injected into the disc, fibrin forms a scaffold that supports the regeneration of the disc tissue. This not only helps to seal the tear but also promotes the growth of new, healthy tissue, enhancing the long-term health of the spine. The use of fibrin in the Discseel procedure aligns with the mission of Orthobiologics Associates to provide minimally invasive therapies using living cells to heal dysfunctional and damaged tissues caused by trauma, genetics, or degenerative diseases.
Orthobiologics Associates specializes in providing advanced, minimally invasive solutions for tissue damage due to trauma, genetics, or degenerative diseases. Their focus is not only on alleviating pain but also on improving long-term quality of life and promoting health and wellbeing. By offering treatments like the Discseel procedure, Orthobiologics Associates caters to individuals seeking alternatives to traditional surgery, emphasizing holistic health approaches and personalized care plans that focus on healing, rehabilitation, and lifestyle improvements. Their clientele, which includes active adults and aging populations, values innovative treatments that prioritize long-term wellness and pain relief.
For more information on herniated disc treatment options and to explore the advanced therapies offered by Orthobiologics Associates, please visit their website.
