Herniated discs (or ruptured discs) are rather common in the U.S., with a current estimation of nearly 35% of the American population experiencing it, even if asymptomatically. This spinal issue may start as general feelings of pain, weakness, or numbness in your back, legs, or arms. However, if untreated, it could severely affect your daily life, cause bladder and bowel dysfunction, and loss of sensation.
We know how painful and inconvenient this condition can be, and that’s why at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine, we provide cutting-edge, regenerative, non-surgical solutions for people suffering from herniated discs in New Jersey.
Our offices are located in Westfield and West Orange, New Jersey, and serve all of Union county, Morris county, Middlesex county, and Somerset county including the surrounding towns of Cranford, Garwood, Clark, Scotch Plains, Mountainside, Springfield, Summit, Chatham, Millburn, Short Hills, Maplewood, Watchung, Berkeley Heights, Livingston, Union, Edison, Woodbridge, and Elizabeth. If you suspect that you have a concussion, don’t hesitate to call Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine or request an appointment online today.
For appointments, call us or book online at any of our convenient locations in Middletown, Morristown, Ridgewood, Westfield, and West Orange.
What Is A Herniated or Ruptured Disc?
Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, a herniated disc happens when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the exterior. Generally, this causes irritation in the nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
The spine is made up of 33 different bones, called vertebrae, and between each we have the spinal discs. These are supporting structures that protect the bones and provide both stability and flexibility to your back.
The nucleus of the spinal disc is soft, with a jellylike texture, protected by a tougher fibrocartilaginous ring known as the annulus. If the annulus gets teared, the nucleus pushes out and you have a ruptured disc.
What Are The Symptoms of a Ruptured Disc?
Symptoms of a ruptured disc may vary depending on severity and specific location of the injury. You should seek medical attention if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain along your back. You could also feel it in your lower back, buttocks, legs, or even feet. If the herniated disc is higher up your spine, you could feel it in your neck, shoulders, or arms.
- Numbness or tingling around the affected area.
- Muscle weakness, spasm, or overactive reflexes around your knee or ankle
- If the damaged disc is located in your lower back, it could cause sciatica, and you could feel a sharp pain sensation traveling down your leg.
What Are The Causes of a Ruptured Disc?
While varied, some of the most common causes of herniated or ruptured discs are:
- Aging: over time, our spinal discs naturally lose water and become less flexible. This makes them more prone to tearing or rupturing, even during activities or movements that were once common in your life.
- Improper lifting techniques: when lifting heavy objects, you should put the strain on your leg and tight muscles, not on your spine. Doing so could injure your discs.
- Injuries: caused by accidents, sudden trauma, rapid movements, or repetitive activities that cause stress on the spine.
- Genetics: some patients might be predisposed to disc problems.
- Lifestyle: being overweight causes an increased stress on the lower back discs. On the other hand, consistent smoking can reduce the blood supply to your spine and cause faster disc degeneration.
If any of your hobbies or occupation involves a lot of physical work and spine strain, you could also be more likely to suffer from a ruptured disc. Keep in mind that most herniated discs occur because of a gradual wear-and-tear, and you won’t always be able to identify one specific cause.
Our expert team will make sure to assess your case, understand its severity, and trace the best route for your recovery. Don’t hesitate to contact us and explore our options at our Westfield, West Orange, Morristown, Ridgewood, or Middletown locations.
Herniated Disc Diagnosis
When you get to any of our Genesis Orthopaedic & Spine facilities, you will be met by a caring and skilled staff so you can start your path to recovery in the best hands. You will discuss with your provider your symptoms and lifestyle aspects that could generate constant back strain. After that, they will perform several physical exams to pinpoint the location of your pain and symptoms.
Most likely, your provider will order some kind of imaging test, like an MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the rupture. Depending on your case, additional nerve functioning tests could be required to detect nerve damage.
Treatments for Herniated or Ruptured Disc in New Jersey
Our approach to treating spinal-related pain focuses on nonsurgical and minimally invasive therapies, including:
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and posture
- Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation
- Chiropractic care to address spinal alignment issues
- Regenerative medicine options, such as PRP therapy, to support natural healing
- Pain management injections for targeted relief
Your personalized treatment plan may include one or a combination of these therapies, depending on the severity of your condition and your overall health goals. Your specialist will discuss possible additional treatments.
The team at any of our New Jersey locations will take the time not only to assess your injury and manage your symptoms, but to help you understand the options you have and what’s the best path for your health.
If you’re experiencing chronic pain, weakness or numbness around your back, legs or arms, it’s important to visit a specialist to get an assessment and explore your alternatives. Call Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine today for more information or book an appointment online.
