Roughly 2% of people experience a herniated disc every year, making it one of the most common causes of back and neck pain in adults. While some herniated discs heal on their own, others can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life.
At OAA Orthopaedic Specialists we offer expert spine care and a full range of both surgical and non-surgical herniated disc treatments in Allentown, PA. Our experienced team includes board-certified spine specialists, pain management doctors, and physical therapists who work together to restore comfort and function.
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If you’re struggling with back pain or radiating leg symptoms, this guide will help you understand what’s happening in your spine and how OAA can help.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Herniated Disc
Your spine is made up of vertebrae stacked on top of one another, with soft intervertebral discs in between. These discs act as cushions, absorbing shock and helping your spine move freely.
Each disc contains a soft center (nucleus pulposus) and a tougher outer ring (annulus fibrosus). A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like center pushes through a tear or weakness in the outer layer. This can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.
The lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine) are the most common areas for disc herniation.
What Causes Herniated Discs?
Several factors increase your risk of a disc herniation. In many cases, it develops over time due to gradual disc degeneration. Here are the most common causes:
- Aging: Natural wear and tear can lead to disc weakening.
- Improper lifting techniques: Twisting or straining your back while lifting.
- Repetitive motion: Jobs or activities involving frequent bending or heavy lifting.
- Sudden trauma or injury: Like a fall or car accident.
- Excess body weight: Adds pressure on spinal structures.
- Smoking: May reduce oxygen flow to discs, weakening them.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Weakens core muscles that support your spine.
Knowing what causes herniated discs can help you take steps to avoid them, especially if you have a physically demanding job or a family history of back problems.
Common Herniated Disc Symptoms
Herniated disc symptoms can vary depending on where the herniation occurs and how severely it presses on surrounding nerves. In many cases, symptoms are more noticeable on one side of the body.
Lumbar (Lower Back) Herniation
- Sciatica (sharp, shooting pain down the leg)
- Tingling or numbness in the buttocks, leg, or foot
- Weakness in leg muscles
- Lower back pain that worsens with movement
Cervical (Neck) Herniation
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Arm or hand numbness or weakness
- Headaches (sometimes)
Some people may not experience symptoms at all if the disc isn’t pressing on a nerve.
How Herniated Discs Are Diagnosed
If you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, your doctor will begin with a physical exam and a detailed history of your symptoms.
Diagnostic Tools We Use at OAA:
- X-rays to rule out other causes of pain
- MRI scans to visualize soft tissues and confirm disc herniation
- CT scans if MRI is not an option
- EMG (electromyography) to assess nerve function if weakness or numbness is present
These evaluations help determine the location and severity of the herniation and guide your treatment plan.
Non-Surgical Herniated Disc Treatment Options
At OAA Orthopaedic Specialists, we always begin with non-surgical herniated disc treatment options whenever possible. These may include:
- Physical therapy: Tailored exercises to strengthen your core and reduce pressure on the disc
- Chiropractic care: Gentle spinal adjustments to relieve pain and improve mobility
- Pain management: Including NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or oral steroids
- Epidural steroid injections: To reduce inflammation and nerve irritation
- Activity modification: Teaching proper posture and safe movement techniques
Most patients improve within 6 to 12 weeks using a conservative treatment plan.
Herniated Disc Surgery Options
When non-surgical treatments fail or when symptoms are severe, surgery may be recommended.
Our Spine Specialists Offer:
- Microdiscectomy: Minimally invasive removal of the herniated portion of the disc
- Laminectomy: Removal of part of the bone to relieve nerve pressure
- Spinal fusion: Used in more complex cases to stabilize the spine
Our experienced surgeons use the least invasive approach possible to shorten recovery time and protect spinal function.
Why Choose OAA for Herniated Disc Treatment in Allentown
Since 1970, OAA Orthopaedic Specialists has been the trusted name in orthopedic and spine care in the Lehigh Valley. Our Spine Center of Excellencecombines top-rated providers, advanced diagnostics, and customized treatment plans to help you move better, faster.
Our care team includes:
- Dr. Stephen Falatyn, MD – Spine Surgery
- Dr. Omar Fareedi, DO – Minimally Invasive Spine Care
- Dr. Robert Wertz II, MD – Pain Management
From diagnosis to recovery, we work as a team to make sure every patient receives expert, compassionate care.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief
If you’re experiencing herniated disc symptoms like sciatica, numbness, or neck pain, don’t wait to seek help. At OAA Orthopaedic Specialists, we offer comprehensive care for herniated discs using both surgical and non-surgical treatments tailored to your needs.
Call us at (610) 973-6200 or schedule an appointment online. Our Allentown team is here to help you move without pain.
