Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, and herniated discs are a frequent culprit. At OrthoIndy, patients like Andrea, Jillian and Justin have found relief through a range of treatments – from physical therapy to minimally invasive spine surgery. Their stories show how disruptive spine conditions can be – and how expert care can make all the difference.
In this article, OrthoIndy spine surgeon Dr. John Dietz shares what you need to know about herniated discs, sciatica and other common spine conditions.
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior. “This can press on nearby nerves and cause symptoms like back pain, leg pain, numbness or weakness,” says Dr. Dietz. “Herniated discs can happen anywhere in the spine; however, they most commonly occur in the lumbar spine (lower back) or cervical spine (neck).”
What causes a herniated disc?
Herniated discs can result from gradual wear and tear, known as disc degeneration, or from a sudden injury. Factors that may increase your risk include:
- Repetitive lifting or twisting
- Poor posture
- Excess body weight
- Aging or family history
Common symptoms of disc herniation
Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the disc herniation. In the lower back, it often causes:
- Pain radiating down the leg (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
In the neck, symptoms may include:
- Shoulder or arm pain
- Numbness in the arm or hand
- Weak grip strength
One of the most common and recognizable signs of a herniated disc, especially in the lower back, is sciatica.
Understanding sciatica
“Sciatic nerve pain can feel like a lightning bolt down the leg,” Dr. Dietz explains. “My patients describe feeling a sharp, burning sensation that is often accompanied by numbness or tingling,” he says. “The good news is that most people improve without surgery with the help of our physical therapy team and time.”
Other common spine conditions
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves
- Degenerative disc disease: Loss of disc hydration and flexibility with age
- Spondylolisthesis: One vertebra slips forward over another, causing nerve pressure
When to seek help
While back pain is common, not all back pain is normal. You should see a specialist if you experience:
- Pain that radiates down your arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling or weakness
- Symptoms lasting more than a few weeks
- Difficulty with daily activities
Treatment options
At OrthoIndy, your care begins with a comprehensive exam and, if needed, an MRI to pinpoint the issue. Many patients start feeling better with:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Lifestyle modifications
If symptoms persist, a microdiscectomy may be recommended. This minimally invasive surgery removes the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve.
Real-life recovery stories
Patient stories help bring these treatments to life:
- Andrea found lasting relief after Dr. David Schwartz performed a microdiscectomy – saying she finally felt like herself again after months of pain.
- Jillian, a busy mom, returned to her active lifestyle after surgery for multiple herniated discs.
- Justin was walking within an hour of his procedure and resumed everyday activities within two weeks.
These real-life examples show the power of timely, expert care in helping patients get back to what they love.
When to seek help
If you’re experiencing back pain that radiates into your arms or legs, especially with numbness or weakness, it’s time to see a spine specialist. “Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable,” says Dr. Dietz. “Early evaluation leads to better outcomes and more treatment options.” To make an appointment with a spine specialist, call 317.802.2000.
