Telltale Signs of a Herniated Disc

Recognizing the signs early and seeking appropriate treatment for a herniated disc can make all the difference in your recovery.

Pain management physician Dr. Leia Rispoli specializes in nonsurgical solutions for relieving discomfort and restoring mobility from her Newport Beach and Marina Del Rey, California, offices.   

She’s happy to offer guidance about the telltale signs of a herniated disc, the common causes, and how to find effective relief through personalized treatments.

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the more rigid exterior casing. This can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.

This condition most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine).

Common causes include:

• Age-related degeneration (also known as degenerative disc disease)
• Sudden injuries from accidents or improper lifting techniques
• Repetitive stress on the spine from certain jobs or sports
• Obesity, which adds extra pressure on spinal discs
• Sedentary lifestyles that weaken supportive back muscles

Even everyday movements like bending or twisting can trigger a herniated disc if the spine is already vulnerable.

How do I know I have a herniated disc?

Only a doctor can say for sure, and not everyone experiences pain, but common symptoms of a herniated disc include:

• Localized back or neck pain
• Pain in the arms, shoulders, buttocks, or legs (especially common in sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling in affected areas
• Muscle weakness, making it hard to walk, lift, or hold objects
• Pain that worsens with coughing or sneezing

Very rarely, a herniated disc can cause loss of bladder or bowel control due to nerve compression. If you experience this, seek immediate medical attention.

How a pain management specialist can help

Seeing a pain management specialist ensures an accurate diagnosis and a customized treatment plan.

Here’s how Dr. Rispoli approaches herniated disc treatment:

Diagnosis

Dr. Rispoli starts with a detailed discussion of your symptoms and a physical examination to assess nerve function, reflexes, and mobility. She may also recommend imaging tests like an MRI to pinpoint the affected disc.

Nonsurgical treatment options

Dr. Rispoli tailors treatment strategies to your needs, which may include:

• Rest and lifestyle modifications to avoid activities that worsen symptoms
• Physical therapy focusing on core strengthening and flexibility
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Epidural steroid injections to decrease nerve inflammation
• Nerve blocks for targeted pain relief
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Alpha 2 macroglobulin (A2M) injections

For some patients, Dr. Rispoli may recommend spinal cord stimulation, a minimally invasive solution that offers long-term pain relief.

Find expert herniated disc treatment today

If you're experiencing back or neck pain, leg or arm numbness, or other signs of a herniated disc, don’t wait. Schedule a visit with Leia Rispoli, MD, today for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized, effective treatment plan.

Call the office or request an appointment online.