Conditions We Treat
Lumbar Disc Herniation
What Is It?
A lumbar disc herniation occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc (nucleus pulposus) bulges or leaks through a tear in the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus), irritating or compressing nearby nerve roots.
This condition most commonly affects the L4–L5 or L5–S1 levels of the lumbar spine and is a frequent cause of sciatica. Disc herniation may result from age-related degeneration, repetitive bending or lifting, trauma, or sudden excessive strain.
Symptoms
- Lower back pain
- Radiating leg pain (sciatica)
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, coughing, or sneezing
- Symptoms often affect one side more than the other
Diagnosis
- Physical exam including neurologic testing and straight leg raise
- MRI as the gold standard for visualizing disc herniation and nerve compression
- X-rays to rule out instability, fracture, or arthritis
- EMG or nerve conduction studies in complex or chronic cases
Treatment
Conservative Options:
- Activity modification and relative rest
- Physical therapy focusing on core strengthening, flexibility, and posture
- Medications including NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or short-term pain relievers
Interventional Options:
- Epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation
Surgical Options:
- Microdiscectomy or decompression if symptoms persist beyond 6–12 weeks or if severe neurologic deficits are present
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