Herniated Disk Treatment in Brandon, FL: When Should You Consider Spine Surgery?

Tasks you would do without any trouble, such as sitting at a desk, lifting a grocery bag or getting out of bed, can suddenly become painful when your disk is herniated. Fortunately, most do not require an operation. The more difficult question is when conservative care is appropriate to be discontinued. If you're looking into Herniated Disk Treatment Brandon FL this guide details the origins of these problems, what treatment options are first and the warning signs it might be time to speak to a neurosurgeon at Total Spine & Brain Institute.

 

Understanding a Herniated Disk

Your intervertebral disks are like shock absorbers, and they have a hard outer layer that is enclosed by a soft center that resembles a gel. As the outer layer becomes weak or ruptures, some of the inner material may bulge through and compress a nearby nerve. This can occur over time, over the years and due to wear and tear, or it can occur suddenly, due to heavy lifting, a fall or a fall or accident. The lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine) are the most common areas for herniations, and symptoms vary depending on which nerve is involved.

 

These are the symptoms you should look for:

The pain of sciatica is often caused by a herniated disk that radiates through the buttocks and down the back of the leg, sometimes accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations. The pain in the neck is usually radiated to the shoulder, arm or hand. The weakness, the "dragging" foot or the weaker grip may also be noticed. Some people find that certain activities (such as coughing or sitting for a long time) aggravate the pain. The problem and the amount of pressure the nerve is under should be readily apparent from a physical examination and an MRI.

 

The place where treatment typically starts

The treatment begins first without surgery for the majority of patients. Many herniations can be resolved by resting for a short period, then gradually resuming activity so the body can reabsorb the material that has been displaced. Rehabilitation exercises will increase the strength of the muscles supporting the spine, anti-inflammatory medications will help reduce irritation, and an injection of anti-inflammatory medication into the space surrounding the nerve can help relieve irritation from a persistent nerve. A majority of patients get better in 6 to 12 weeks. Each option is clearly explained and surgery is not advocated where it is not indicated.

 

Symptoms that may help you know if it is time for surgery

Surgery is a viable option in certain circumstances. The first is pain, numbness or weakness that persists after weeks of consistent conservative care and is interfering with your ability to work, sleep or enjoy life. The second is progressive weakness, e.g., a leg or arm that is becoming increasingly weak. There are certain symptoms that are more critical. If bladder or bowel control has suddenly become lost, numbness in the groin or saddle area, or the legs have become very weak, then it is an urgent matter of compressions, and immediate treatment is necessary.

 

Modern Surgical Approaches

Spine surgery has changed a great deal. Patients of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Florida are now able to choose methods that employ small incisions and specialized instruments to access the affected area with minimal healthy muscle tissue and/or bone damage. If the herniated disk is compressing a nerve, the surgeon might remove the part of the disk that is impinging the nerve, which is called a microdiscectomy. Non-fusion methods and/or robotic assistance may also be considered in some cases. Each patient is an individual and the right approach will vary depending on the imaging, symptoms, and goals, so the first step is to thoroughly evaluate each patient.

 

Post Surgery Information

A large number of minimally invasive techniques enable patients to leave the hospital the same day or the next. Walking is encouraged early as gentle movement helps healing and decreases stiffness. Your surgeon will restrict bending, twisting and lifting for some time and physical therapy may be done after surgery to restore strength and promote safe movement. Recovery can take several weeks, with many patients returning to lighter activities and work at a desk within this time. After care visits ensure healing is progressing.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Will a herniated disk heal?

Often, yes. Most herniations get better in weeks or months as the body absorbs the displaced material, and symptoms improve with conservative treatment. If you have had or are experiencing worsening symptoms, you should seek a specialist's opinion.

 

What is the waiting period?

While there is no specific time period, most surgeons would look for improvement in the treatment over about six to twelve weeks. If symptoms of bladder and bowel weakness or incontinence occur, it should not be a question of when, but of how.

 

Is some form of surgery safer than conventional surgery?

The smaller the incisions, the less muscle disruption and sooner an early recovery, however with any surgery there are risks. Your surgeon will tell you if this is an option for your surgery.

 

Will the disk reinflamme after surgery?

Recurrence can occur, but it's rare. By following the activity guidelines, being active and maintaining a healthy weight will reduce the risk.

 

Should I have an MRI prior to seeing the specialist?

Not always. If you are already imaging, please come with your imaging. Otherwise, we can let you know whether or not an MRI is necessary after your exam.

 

Is the treatment included in the policy?

Most insurance carriers accepted, including Medicare.

Schedule Your Consultation

When back and/or neck pain are preventing you from moving, a correct diagnosis is the first and best step. Our team and board-certified neurosurgeon, Dr. Tien Le is available to evaluate you in our offices located in Brandon and Sun City Center and have a plan that is tailored to your needs.