Herniated Disc Specialist

What is a herniated disc?

Also called slipped or ruptured discs, herniated discs are among the most common causes of lower back pain and neck pain. This condition occurs when the soft, gel-like material inside a spinal disc leaks out through a weak spot in its exterior.

When a disc herniates, the displaced material can rupture surrounding spinal ligaments or put pressure on nearby nerves. This often leads to ongoing discomfort and impaired mobility that can dramatically affect your quality of life. 

What causes herniated discs?

The most common cause of herniated discs is age-related wear-and-tear damage, also called degenerative disc disease. This happens when the vertebral discs break down due to ongoing stress over time. 

A herniated disc can also occur suddenly after a traumatic injury, such as a fall or car accident, or from lifting a heavy object with improper posture. 

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Most herniated discs occur in your lower back (lumbar spine), but they can also happen in your neck (cervical spine). Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the herniated disc. 

A herniated disc in your cervical spine may cause pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in your neck, shoulder, and arm. Herniated discs in your lumbar spine cause similar symptoms in your lower back, hip, and leg. 

How are herniated discs treated?

Dr. Rovner offers a variety of surgical and nonsurgical treatments for herniated discs. He takes a conservative approach and only recommends surgery after trying every other option. Nonsurgical treatments for herniated discs include:

• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Joint injections
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Muscle relaxants

If your pain and symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Rovner is a highly skilled surgeon who uses the latest innovations, including microsurgery and endoscopic techniques. These minimally invasive procedures mean smaller incisions, less pain and blood loss, and a faster recovery for you.  

Depending on your needs, Dr. Rovner may treat your herniated disc with one of the following minimally invasive procedures:

• Endoscopic discectomy
• Laminectomy
• Laminotomy
• Foraminotomy
• Lumbar fusion
• Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
• Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion
• Cervical disc replacement

Dr. Rovner typically performs herniated disc surgery on an outpatient basis so you don’t have to stay in the hospital. 

If you think you have a herniated disc, call New York Spine and Sports Surgery or schedule an appointment online today.