HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A DISC TEAR?
What Causes a Disc Tear?
A disc tear happens when the inner nerve endings emerge outside of the protective disc walls causing a herniation. This condition is most likely felt in the neck and lower back due to a sports injury, some type of trauma, or due to the natural aging process.
Most people experience a disc tear from disc generation caused by getting older in age. As you get older, the discs weaken, which leaves it at a higher risk of tearing. As the disc weakens, it loses flexibility and is easily impacted.
What Are the Symptoms of a Disc Tear?
The most common symptoms for a disc tear range from mild to severe pain. The intensity of the pain depends on the location of the tear and its size. Symptoms of a disc tear include:
- Pain where the damaged disc is located
- Numbness and tingling in the area of the damaged disc
- Lack of reflexes in the affected extremities
- Pain and muscle spasms in the neck, low or mid back
- Radiating pain in the arms or legs
- Loss of coordination
Are you experiencing the symptoms of a Disc Tear? Find out if you have this condition below.
HOW IS A DISC TEAR TREATED?
What Should I Do About Disc Tear Pain?
Depending on the location and size of your Disc Tear, conservative treatment could be the right plan for you. Common non-invasive Disc Tear treatment includes:
- Rest
- Heat or ice therapy
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories
- Physical therapy
- Epidural Steroid Injections
How Is a Disc Tear Treated?
Minimally invasive surgery to treat a disc tear is typically not needed as conservative treatments tend to be effective. However, if exhausting conservsative treatment does not improve your pain, then a minimally invasive disc tear surgery may become an option. Common minimally invasive surgeries used to treat disc tears include:
- Microdiscectomy
- Spinal fusion
- Endoscopic spine surgeries
The experts at Oasis Orthopedic & Spine can help you understand your options and recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition, its location, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing.
Whether your Disc Tear treatment is non-surgical or minimally invasive, seeking help is the first step. Find the right treatment for you with our treatment finder below.