A herniated disc—also known as a slipped or ruptured disc—is one of the most common causes of chronic back and neck pain. At the Center for Regenerative Therapy & Pain Management, we specialize in non-surgical solutions that relieve pressure on spinal nerves and help patients get back to a pain-free, active life.
Spinal discs are soft, cushion-like structures located between each vertebra in your spine. They act as shock absorbers and help the spine stay flexible.
A disc herniation occurs when the inner gel-like core of the disc pushes through the tough outer layer, often pressing against nearby nerves. This can cause back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or radiating pain into the arms or legs—especially in conditions like sciatica.
Discs lose water and flexibility over time, making them more prone to tearing or bulging.
Sitting for long hours or lifting incorrectly can put constant pressure on the spine.
Sudden strain on the lower back can cause a disc to rupture.
Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can lead to a herniated disc.
Jobs involving heavy labor, prolonged sitting, or repetitive movements can increase the risk of disc problems.
Improper lifting, poor ergonomics, or trauma (like falls or accidents) can all lead to persistent back pain.
A herniated disc can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on its location and severity. Many patients experience pain, numbness, or weakness that interferes with daily movement and comfort.
Lower back or neck pain
Pain that radiates into the arm or leg (sciatica)
Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing
Decreased flexibility or difficulty standing or walking
We use a combination of physical evaluation, imaging, and precision-based diagnostics to confirm a disc herniation and tailor the most effective treatment plan.
Physical Exam: Assessing motion, strength, and neurological signs
Symptom Review: Evaluating pain patterns, duration, and triggers
Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to locate and assess disc damage
Diagnostic Injections: Confirming the pain source through targeted numbing
These injections reduce inflammation around spinal nerves and help relieve pressure-related pain.
Nerve blocks provide quick relief by numbing specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain.
This procedure uses heat to deactivate targeted nerves and reduce long-term pain signals.
A small implanted device sends impulses to disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain.
We coordinate therapy to improve posture, mobility, and strength for long-term spine support.
We offer personalized tips to reduce strain, support recovery, and prevent recurring pain.
Most disc herniations don’t require surgery to heal—just the right diagnosis and targeted treatment. At the Center for Regenerative Therapy & Pain Management, we take a personalized, non-surgical approach to relieving pressure on the spine and reducing nerve irritation.
If you’re living with persistent back or neck pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. Let our team help you take the next step toward real, lasting relief with a plan designed specifically for your body and your goals.
Disc Herniation
Yes, herniated discs are often painful, especially when the inner disc material presses on nearby spinal nerves. The pain may stay localized in the neck or back, or it may radiate down an arm or leg—a condition known as radiculopathy or sciatica. Many people also experience numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness along with the pain. The intensity can vary from mild discomfort to sharp, shooting pain that disrupts daily life.
In many cases, a herniated disc can heal or significantly improve without surgery. With rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory treatments, and interventional care like steroid injections, symptoms often resolve over time. The disc may not fully return to its original shape, but inflammation can subside and nerve pressure can be reduced. Early treatment can also help prevent long-term damage.
A herniated disc isn’t always permanent in terms of symptoms or disability. While the structural damage to the disc may remain, most patients experience significant or full relief with non-surgical treatment. The goal is to reduce nerve irritation and improve function, which is possible even if the disc itself doesn’t completely heal. Many people live active lives after a herniation with proper management.
Yes, herniated discs can be effectively managed or “fixed” in terms of symptoms. Non-surgical options like epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation can offer long-term relief. In rare cases where conservative treatment fails, surgical intervention may be considered. The key is a personalized treatment plan based on the severity and location of the disc issue.
Most herniated discs do not require surgery. Conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, and activity modifications are often highly effective. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases where pain is debilitating, or when there are neurological issues like progressive weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control. A specialist can help determine the right path based on your symptoms.
Yes, herniated disc pain can fluctuate depending on posture, activity level, and inflammation. Some patients experience occasional flare-ups triggered by bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting. Others may go through periods of little to no pain before symptoms return. Consistent care and proper movement techniques can help manage and reduce these flare-ups.
While very rare, a severe disc herniation can compress the spinal cord or cauda equina (nerve bundle) and potentially lead to paralysis if left untreated. This is considered a medical emergency and may be accompanied by symptoms like sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe numbness in the legs. Immediate evaluation and treatment are crucial in these cases. Fortunately, most herniations do not reach this level of severity.
Prevention involves maintaining a healthy spine through good posture, regular exercise, and core strengthening. It’s important to avoid heavy lifting with poor form and to take breaks from prolonged sitting or repetitive motion. Staying flexible and managing body weight also help reduce pressure on the spine. Making ergonomic adjustments at work and during daily activities can go a long way in preventing future disc problems.
Have questions or need guidance? Reach out today and our team will help you take the next step toward lasting pain relief.
We provide advanced, personalized pain management care for patients across New Jersey, led by board-certified specialist Dr. Shane Huch.
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