Herniated Disc
A herniated disc can affect nearby nerve roots and may cause back or leg symptoms. Evaluation and care depend on each person’s symptoms and clinical findings.
What is a herniated disc?
A spinal disc has a soft inner portion and an outer ring. A herniated disc occurs when the inner material pushes through a tear in the outer ring. It may press on a nearby nerve root.
Possible symptoms
Depending on the disc and whether a nerve is affected, symptoms may include back pain, pain that radiates into a leg (sciatica), numbness, or weakness. Symptoms differ from person to person and need clinical assessment.
Evaluation and care decisions
A clinician can assess symptoms and examine the patient, and may review imaging such as an MRI as part of an evaluation. The findings and appropriate next steps are individual and should be discussed with a qualified clinician.
Microdiscectomy is one procedure a clinician may consider for some herniated discs. Whether it is appropriate depends on the clinician’s assessment and the individual’s symptoms and findings.
Learn more about microdiscectomy or visit our spine surgery page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a herniated disc?
It occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its outer ring and may press on a nearby nerve root.
What symptoms can a herniated disc cause?
Possible symptoms include back pain, pain radiating into a leg (sciatica), numbness, or weakness. Symptoms vary and should be assessed by a clinician.
How is a herniated disc evaluated?
A clinician may assess symptoms, examine the patient, and review imaging such as an MRI. The evaluation and interpretation of findings are specific to the individual.
Is microdiscectomy appropriate for every herniated disc?
No single procedure is right for everyone. A clinician may consider microdiscectomy in some cases after reviewing the person’s symptoms and clinical findings.
Start planning your arrival in Miami
The Pre-Arrival Profile helps CuraVita coordinate arrival logistics, travel, and stay details. It does not collect medical history, imaging, or diagnosis.
Start Your Pre-Arrival Profile