Herniated Disc Treatment in Oxford, FL
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, often referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort as the herniated material can press on spinal nerves. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 2% of the population suffers from a herniated disc at some point in their life, making it a relatively common spinal issue. The spine is composed of 24 vertebrae cushioned by intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers. When one of these discs herniates, it can lead to severe pain, numbness, and even muscle weakness.
What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?
The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: Sharp or burning pain in the back, which can radiate to the arms or legs. The pain is often exacerbated by movements such as bending, lifting, or twisting.
- Numbness and Tingling: A herniated disc can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the affected area, which can extend to the extremities.
- Muscle Weakness: The pressure on the spinal nerves can lead to muscle weakness, making it difficult to lift or hold items.
- Loss of Reflexes: In severe cases, the herniation can affect motor skills and reflexes, leading to coordination issues.
How is a Herniated Disc Different from a Bulging Disc?
While both conditions involve the intervertebral discs, they are distinct in their manifestations and implications:
- Herniated Disc: This occurs when the inner gel-like nucleus pulposus breaks through the outer annulus fibrosus. This can lead to significant nerve compression and symptoms.
- Bulging Disc: In this condition, the disc protrudes outward but the outer layer remains intact. While it can cause discomfort, it is generally less severe than a herniated disc and may not always compress the nerves.
Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
How Do You Test to See If You Have a Herniated Disc or Bulging Disc?
Several diagnostic methods can determine whether you have a herniated or bulging disc:
- Physical Examination: Initial assessment often involves a physical exam where the doctor checks for signs of nerve damage and evaluates your range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength.
- Imaging Tests:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This is the most effective tool for diagnosing herniated discs, providing detailed images of the spinal cord and nerves.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Useful for identifying the extent of the disc herniation and its impact on surrounding tissues.
- X-rays: While not as detailed, X-rays can rule out other causes of back pain, such as fractures.
- Nerve Tests:
- Electromyography (EMG): Measures the electrical activity of muscles to identify nerve damage.
- Nerve Conduction Studies: Assess the speed and strength of electrical signals in your nerves.
How Do You Treat a Herniated or Bulging Disc?
Treatment options for herniated or bulging discs vary based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Here are some common treatments:
- Conservative Treatments:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to improve flexibility and relieve pressure on the nerves.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants.
- Rest: Short periods of rest can help alleviate symptoms, but prolonged inactivity is not recommended.
- Hot/Cold Therapy: Applying heat or ice packs to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Advanced Treatments:
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
- Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the nerves.
- Discseel Procedure: A minimally invasive treatment that uses fibrin to seal and repair damaged discs, promoting natural healing.
What is the Discseel Procedure for Herniated Disc Treatment?
The Discseel procedure is a cutting-edge treatment designed to provide relief for those suffering from herniated or bulging discs. Unlike traditional surgical methods, Discseel is minimally invasive and aims to repair the damaged disc rather than remove it. The procedure involves injecting a biologic substance called fibrin into the affected disc. Fibrin is a natural protein that promotes clotting and tissue repair. Once injected, it forms a seal over the tear in the disc, preventing further leakage of the nucleus pulposus and allowing the disc to heal naturally. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief through conservative treatments and are looking for an alternative to surgery.
Why is Discseel Preferred Over Spine Surgery?
The American Society of Anesthesiologists estimates that 20 to 40% of back surgeries fail, a condition often referred to as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). For patients undergoing repeated back surgeries, the success rate drops significantly, with only about 30% of second surgeries being successful. In contrast, the Discseel procedure offers a less invasive alternative with promising results. Unlike traditional surgery, which often involves removing the damaged disc and fusing the vertebrae, Discseel focuses on repairing the disc, thereby preserving its natural function and structure. This approach reduces the risk of complications and promotes quicker recovery, making it a preferred option for many patients.
How Does Discseel Work?
The Discseel procedure works by utilizing the natural healing properties of fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting and tissue repair. During the procedure, a small needle is used to inject fibrin into the damaged disc under fluoroscopic guidance. The fibrin forms a seal over the tear in the disc, preventing further leakage of the nucleus pulposus. This seal allows the disc to heal naturally over time, reducing pain and restoring function. The entire procedure is minimally invasive, typically performed on an outpatient basis, and requires only local anesthesia. Patients can usually return to their normal activities within a few days, making it a convenient and effective option for those suffering from disc-related pain.
What is Fibrin and How is it Used in the Discseel Treatment?
Fibrin is a natural protein that plays a crucial role in the body’s healing process. It is involved in blood clotting and tissue repair, forming a mesh-like structure that helps to seal wounds and promote healing. In the Discseel procedure, fibrin is used to seal the tears in the intervertebral discs. The fibrin is harvested from the patient’s own blood, processed, and then injected into the damaged disc. Once inside the disc, the fibrin forms a seal over the tear, preventing further leakage of the nucleus pulposus and allowing the disc to heal naturally. This approach not only reduces pain and inflammation but also promotes long-term healing and restoration of disc function.
Orthobiologics Associates specializes in providing minimally invasive therapies like the Discseel procedure, using living cells to heal dysfunctional and damaged tissues caused by trauma, genetics, or degenerative diseases. Their focus on cell therapy orthobiologics, image-guided procedures, and interventional treatments ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective care. By offering treatments like the Discseel procedure, Orthobiologics Associates aims to not only alleviate pain but also improve long-term quality of life and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Understanding herniated and bulging discs, their symptoms, and the available treatment options is crucial for those suffering from back pain. The Discseel procedure offers a promising alternative to traditional spine surgery, providing a minimally invasive solution that promotes natural healing and reduces the risk of complications. At Orthobiologics Associates, we are committed to offering advanced, minimally invasive treatments that focus on healing, rehabilitation, and long-term wellness. By leveraging the latest in medical technology and research, we aim to provide our patients with the best possible outcomes and improve their overall quality of life.
