A single episode of excessive strain, such as a bout of heavy lifting, can cause a herniated disc. More often, though, the condition results from degenerative changes in the spine that occur along with the aging process. Either way, a herniated disc can cause a lot of pain if it moves out of position and presses on a nearby spinal nerve.

If you need treatment for a herniated disc, the orthopedic doctors at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Thermopolis, Wyoming, can get you started on the road to recovery. We’ll help you manage your pain so you can return to the active pursuits you enjoy as quickly as possible.

What Exactly Is a Herniated Disc?

Spinal discs are flexible cushions situated between vertebrae. Each disc has a firm outer border that contains a soft, gel-like center. Due to sudden trauma or gradual wear and tear, the outer coating of a disc can break open (herniate), allowing some of its inner material to seep into the spinal canal, where it can easily press on sensitive nerve tissue. In addition to neck or back pain, a herniated disc may cause:

• Numbness
• Tingling sensations
• Muscle weakness

During your visit to Premier Bone & Joint Centers, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine doctor will thoroughly evaluate your condition by performing a physical and neurological examination and possibly ordering some imaging tests.

How Is a Herniated Disc Treated?

Herniated disc symptoms often improve on their own with time. Until they do, however, it’s important to limit or avoid any activities that involve bending or twisting the spine, which can worsen the pain. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, we may suggest physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support the spine or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate painful inflammation. As the team physicians for the University of Wyoming Athletics, our doctors have acquired extensive experience in treating herniated discs, so you can feel confident relying on our expertise.

Premier Bone & Joint Centers is an outstanding source of herniated disc treatment in Thermopolis, WY. Contact us today to require an appointment.