Herniated Disc Treatment in South Tampa, FL
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner gel-like core of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, as the displaced material may press on nearby nerves. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, herniated discs are most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) and less frequently in the neck (cervical spine). Statistics show that approximately 5-20 out of every 1,000 adults in the U.S. will experience a herniated disc annually. Understanding the nature of a herniated disc is essential for recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment.
What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?
Individuals with a herniated disc often report experiencing sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the affected area. In the lumbar region, this pain can extend down the legs and into the feet, a condition known as sciatica. When the herniated disc is in the cervical spine, pain may radiate to the shoulders and arms. Other common symptoms include numbness or tingling in the extremities, muscle weakness, and difficulty performing everyday activities. The severity of these symptoms can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that significantly impacts quality of life.
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 distinct in their manifestations. A bulging disc occurs when the disc’s outer layer protrudes outward, but the inner gel-like core remains contained within the disc. On the other hand, a herniated disc involves a rupture or tear in the outer layer, allowing the inner core to leak out. Bulging discs are generally less severe and often asymptomatic, while herniated discs are more likely to cause significant pain and neurological symptoms due to nerve compression.
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 medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests. During the physical exam, a healthcare provider may assess your range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength to identify signs of nerve compression. Imaging tests such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computerized Tomography (CT) scans are crucial for visualizing the spine and confirming the diagnosis. MRIs are particularly effective in providing detailed images of soft tissues, including the spinal discs and nerves. In some cases, a Myelogram, which involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal, may be used to enhance the visibility of the spinal structures on X-rays or CT scans.
How Do You Treat a Herniated or Bulging Disc?
Treatment Options and Their Benefits
- Physical TherapyBenefit: Strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and reduces pain.
- MedicationsBenefit: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants can alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Epidural Steroid InjectionsBenefit: Provides temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the affected nerves.
- Chiropractic CareBenefit: Manual adjustments can improve spinal alignment and relieve pressure on the nerves.
- AcupunctureBenefit: May reduce pain and improve function by stimulating specific points on the body.
- Lifestyle ModificationsBenefit: Weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and regular exercise can prevent further disc damage.
- Minimally Invasive ProceduresBenefit: Techniques like the Discseel procedure offer an alternative to traditional surgery with shorter recovery times and fewer risks.
What is the Discseel Procedure for Herniated Disc Treatment?
The Discseel procedure is a revolutionary treatment for herniated discs that aims to repair and regenerate damaged spinal discs. Unlike traditional surgical methods, which often involve removing part of the disc or fusing vertebrae, Discseel focuses on healing the disc itself. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a biologic adhesive called fibrin into the damaged disc. Fibrin is a natural protein that promotes tissue regeneration and seals tears in the disc’s outer layer. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and guided by imaging technology to ensure precise placement of the fibrin. Patients typically experience significant pain relief and improved function within weeks, with minimal downtime and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
Why is Discseel Preferred Over Spine Surgery?
The American Society of Anesthesiologists estimates that 20 to 40% of back surgeries fail, leading to persistent pain and the need for additional procedures. Patients undergoing repeated back surgeries face even higher failure rates, with only 30% of second surgeries being successful. In contrast, the Discseel procedure offers a less invasive alternative with a higher success rate. By focusing on repairing the damaged disc rather than removing it, Discseel preserves the natural structure and function of the spine. This approach reduces the risk of complications and the need for further surgeries, making it a preferred option for many patients seeking long-term relief from herniated disc pain.
How Does Discseel Work?
Discseel works by utilizing the body’s natural healing processes to repair damaged spinal discs. The procedure begins with a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests to identify the extent of disc damage. Once the affected discs are identified, a small needle is used to inject fibrin into the damaged areas. Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and tissue repair. When injected into the disc, it forms a scaffold that supports the regeneration of the disc’s outer layer. This helps to seal any tears and prevent further leakage of the inner gel-like core. Over time, the fibrin is absorbed by the body, and the disc heals naturally. Patients typically experience significant pain relief and improved function within weeks, with minimal downtime and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
What is Fibrin and How is it Used in the Discseel Treatment?
Fibrin is a naturally occurring protein that is essential for blood clotting and tissue repair. It is produced by the body in response to injury and forms a mesh-like structure that supports the healing process. In the Discseel procedure, fibrin is used to repair damaged spinal discs by sealing tears in the outer layer and promoting tissue regeneration. The fibrin is injected into the damaged disc under imaging guidance to ensure precise placement. Once injected, it forms a scaffold that supports the regeneration of the disc’s outer layer, sealing any tears and preventing further leakage of the inner gel-like core. Over time, the fibrin is absorbed by the body, and the disc heals naturally. This innovative approach offers a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery, with a higher success rate and fewer complications.
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 wellbeing. By offering advanced treatments like the Discseel procedure, they provide patients with effective, minimally invasive solutions for tissue damage. Their personalized care plans focus on healing, rehabilitation, and lifestyle improvements, catering to individuals seeking alternatives to traditional surgery and interested in holistic health approaches.
