Herniated Disc Treatment in Palm Harbor, FL
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner gel of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in its outer layer. This condition can lead to significant pain and discomfort, as the herniated material may press against nearby nerves. Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility and shock absorption to the spine. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, approximately 90% of herniated discs occur in the lower back (lumbar spine), while the remaining 10% occur in the neck (cervical spine).
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 that radiates to the arms or legs. In the lower back, pain often extends to the buttocks, thighs, and calves.
- Numbness and Tingling: A herniated disc can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the affected area, often radiating down the limbs.
- Weakness: Muscle weakness in the affected area can occur, making it difficult to lift or hold items.
- Loss of Reflexes: Reduced reflexes in the knee or ankle can be a sign of nerve compression due to a herniated disc.
How is a Herniated Disc Different from a Bulging Disc?
While both conditions involve intervertebral discs, a herniated disc and a bulging disc are distinct. A bulging disc occurs when the disc protrudes outward but remains intact, without the inner gel leaking out. This condition is often less severe and may not cause symptoms unless it presses on nearby nerves. In contrast, a herniated disc involves a tear in the outer layer, allowing the inner gel to escape and potentially compress nerves, leading to more pronounced symptoms.
How Do You Test to See if You Have a Herniated or Bulging Disc?
Diagnosing a herniated or bulging disc typically involves a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, range of motion, and reflexes. They may perform specific tests to identify nerve compression.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI provides detailed images of the spine, allowing for the visualization of disc herniation or bulging.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan can help identify the location and extent of disc damage.
- X-rays: While X-rays cannot visualize soft tissues like discs, they can rule out other causes of back pain.
- Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and can help determine if nerve damage is present.
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 and their benefits:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can provide symptom relief.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections can reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
- Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments can help alleviate pressure on the nerves and improve spinal alignment.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the herniated portion of the disc.
What is the Discseel Procedure for Herniated Disc Treatment?
The Discseel procedure is a minimally invasive treatment option for herniated discs that focuses on repairing the damaged disc tissue. This innovative procedure involves injecting a biologic material called fibrin into the affected disc. Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and tissue repair. When injected into the disc, fibrin forms a scaffold that promotes the regeneration of the disc’s outer layer, sealing any tears and preventing further herniation. The Discseel procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Why is Discseel Preferred Over Spine Surgery?
The Discseel procedure offers several advantages over traditional spine surgery. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, 20 to 40% of back surgeries fail, and patients undergoing repeated surgeries face even higher failure rates. One study found that only 30% of second back surgeries are successful. In contrast, the Discseel procedure is minimally invasive, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery. Additionally, it addresses the root cause of the herniation by repairing the damaged disc tissue, rather than simply removing it.
How Does Discseel Work?
The Discseel procedure involves several steps to ensure optimal outcomes for patients. First, a thorough evaluation is conducted to determine the extent of the disc damage. Once the patient is deemed a suitable candidate, the procedure begins with the injection of a local anesthetic to numb the area. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a needle is carefully inserted into the affected disc. Fibrin is then injected into the disc, where it forms a scaffold that promotes the regeneration of the outer layer. This process seals any tears and prevents further herniation. The entire procedure takes approximately one hour, and patients can return home the same day.
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 formed from fibrinogen, a soluble protein found in blood plasma, during the clotting process. When an injury occurs, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure that helps to seal wounds and promote tissue repair. In the Discseel procedure, fibrin is used to repair the damaged outer layer of the intervertebral disc. By forming a scaffold, fibrin promotes the regeneration of the disc tissue, sealing any tears and preventing further herniation. This minimally invasive approach allows patients to experience significant pain relief and improved mobility without the need for traditional surgery.
Orthobiologics Associates specializes in providing minimally invasive therapies using living cells to heal dysfunctional and damaged tissues caused by 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 well-being. By offering advanced treatments like the Discseel procedure, Orthobiologics Associates caters to individuals seeking innovative solutions for tissue damage and pain relief. Their personalized care plans emphasize healing, rehabilitation, and lifestyle improvements, making them a trusted choice for those looking to enhance their quality of life through cutting-edge treatments.
