A common back problem occurs when vertebral disks tear, bulge or rupture. In such cases, an injured disk can no longer cushion the vertebrae and absorb shock. This can lead to pain, stiffness and other symptoms.
A herniated disk happens when a spinal disk tears. Spinal disks are gel-filled cushions that sit between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). If a disk tears, the center may bulge out. The disk may then press on nearby nerves. This can cause severe pain. Numbness or tingling in an arm or leg may also occur.
You may need X-rays of the spine. If you've had the pain for a few weeks and it is not getting better after treatment, you may need an MRI scan. Treatment for a herniated disk usually involves pain medicines and home care. Surgery is not usually done to treat a herniated disk unless the nerve problem is causing weakness or numbness.
University of Minnesota Health physicians provide the most up-to-date, effective treatments for herniated disks. The care team at our Orthopaedic Clinic is dedicated to delivering excellent care, innovative research and meaningful educational programs for all of our patients with herniated disk.