Overview
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc displaces and presses on a nearby nerve, causing back or neck pain that radiates into a limb. Most improve without surgery.
Common Symptoms
- Pain radiating into the arm or leg
- Numbness or tingling in a specific pattern
- Muscle weakness
- Pain worsened by sitting, coughing, or bending
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age-related disc wear
- Sudden lifting or twisting
- Repetitive loading
Treatment Options
- Physical therapy and core stabilization
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Epidural steroid injection
- Microdiscectomy for persistent or severe symptoms
Recovery & What to Expect
Most herniations improve within 6–12 weeks with non-operative care. When surgery is needed, minimally invasive decompression provides reliable relief of leg or arm pain.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual diagnosis and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.