Herniated Disc
Herniated Disc services offered in Appleton, Oshkosh, North Fond du Lac, Bellevue and Green Bay, WI
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer and compresses nearby nerves. This common condition can cause back or neck pain, sciatica, and even muscle weakness. Treatment ranges from conservative care, like physical therapy and medications, to advanced surgical options when needed—all focused on relieving nerve pressure and restoring function. Call us today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.
Herniated Disc Q & A
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a weak spot in the tougher outer layer. If the disc material presses on nearby nerves, it can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that radiates along the path of the nerve.
Lumbar (low back) herniated discs may cause leg pain, commonly known as sciatica.
Cervical (neck) herniated discs can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulders and arms.
What causes a herniated disc?
Herniated discs may develop from:
Injury or trauma (such as an accident or sports activity).
Degenerative changes over time, as discs naturally lose flexibility and hydration with age.
Repetitive strain or added stress from factors like excess body weight or poor conditioning.
The NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin team determines which disc is damaged and why it’s happened to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.
What are the common symptoms of a herniated disc?
Common symptoms of a herniated disc include:
Localized back or neck pain
Radiating pain into the leg (sciatica) or arm
Tingling, numbness, or “pins-and-needles” sensations
Muscle weakness in the affected area
What treatments help with a herniated disc?
Most herniated discs can be managed without surgery. Conservative treatments may include:
Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and posture
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Injections, such as epidural steroids, for targeted relief
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses your body’s own healing factors to reduce inflammation and support tissue repair
If non-surgical care is not effective and symptoms remain severe, surgical options like microdiscectomy or disc replacement may be recommended. The goal is to relieve nerve pressure, restore mobility, and preserve as much natural disc function as possible.