A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner nucleus of a spinal disc pushes through its outer wall and presses on a nearby nerve. It is among the most common causes of back pain, neck pain, and radiating limb symptoms — and is highly treatable.
Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, absorbing shock and allowing spinal movement. When the outer ring (annulus fibrosus) tears, the inner gel-like material (nucleus pulposus) can herniate and compress adjacent nerve roots or, in the cervical spine, the spinal cord itself.
Disc herniations occur most commonly in the lumbar spine at L4–L5 and L5–S1, and in the cervical spine at C5–C6 and C6–C7. The location of the herniation determines the pattern of symptoms, including which arm or leg is affected.
Most spine conditions respond well to a stepped approach — starting with the least invasive options and progressing only when needed. Our surgeons evaluate each patient individually to determine the most appropriate path.
Surgery is considered when symptoms are severe, failing to improve after an adequate conservative trial, or when neurological function is declining. Microdiscectomy for lumbar disc herniation and ACDF for cervical disc herniation are among the most reliably effective operations in spine surgery. Cauda equina syndrome — bowel or bladder dysfunction from massive central disc herniation — requires emergency surgical decompression.
General medical consensus supports surgical intervention only after conservative measures have been adequately trialed, except in cases of significant neurological compromise or progressive deficit, where earlier intervention may be warranted.
Our surgeons take a conservative approach — surgery is recommended only when it is clearly the best option. Schedule a consultation and we will walk through your imaging, history, and all available treatments together.
Our fellowship-trained spine specialists will evaluate your condition and discuss every available option — surgical and non-surgical.