Herniated Disc Specialist in Plano, TX

A herniated disc is a condition that occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through a tear or weakened area in the tougher outer layer. Since the discs act as cushions between the bones of the spine, any potential shift or rupture has the capacity to cause irritation or pressure on nearby nerves. This pressure over time can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in different parts of the body, as influenced by where the herniated disc is located. Most cases of herniated discs tend to occur in the lower back or the neck, where the spine is most flexible and carries a lot of movement throughout the day.

At Northstar Joint and Spine, board-certified specialists focus on herniated disc care by addressing the condition while considering the unique symptoms and disruptions it causes in a patient’s daily life. For many individuals, early interventions like physical therapy, medication management, or targeted joint injections can be enough to bring significant relief. In more persistent cases, options like epidural steroid injections or facet injections are available to help reduce inflammation and nerve irritation, allowing the patient to regain comfort and mobility without needing more invasive procedures.

Pain from a herniated disc can present in a number of different ways, as influenced by how the disc presses against the surrounding nerves and overall health and wellness, among other factors. Some individuals may experience sharp, shooting pains that travel down the arms or legs, while others feel a deeper aching type of pain that seems to settle into the back, hips, or shoulders. In cases where nerve involvement is more severe, symptoms like tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness can appear. These symptoms can make it harder to move normally or perform daily activities without discomfort.

Understanding the exact way a herniated disc affects a patient is the first step in creating an effective treatment plan. The team at Northstar Joint and Spine spends time communicating openly with patients, ensuring that care plans are designed around the patient’s specific symptoms and experiences. Whether a patient is managing mild discomfort or struggling with more severe nerve pain, different therapies can be combined to help bring lasting relief, with a focus on getting the individual back to their usual routines as comfortably and safely as possible.

A herniated disc most often develops from the natural aging process, as the discs in the spine lose some of their water content and become less flexible over time. When discs weaken, everyday stresses such as bending, lifting, or twisting can cause a tear or shift in the disc’s outer layer. In addition to wear and tear, genetic factors, repetitive strain from work or hobbies, and even overall lifestyle habits can influence how vulnerable a person might be to disc problems. At Northstar Joint and Spine, specialists use advanced diagnostic techniques, including different types of nerve blocks and imaging tools, to help pinpoint the exact cause of a patient’s symptoms. Identifying whether a herniated disc is the source of discomfort is an important step toward choosing the right treatments. By combining accurate diagnosis with a wide range of available therapies, including minimally invasive options, the team can create care plans that target the root of the problem while addressing each patient’s unique symptoms.

Diagnosing a herniated disc involves several steps and usually begins with a detailed physical examination where providers assess nerve function, reflexes, and areas of weakness or pain. Imaging studies like MRI or CT scans often follow, helping to visualize the condition of the spinal discs and confirm whether a herniation is present. In some cases, diagnostic nerve blocks may be used to further isolate the source of symptoms, particularly when the pain pattern is difficult to identify, complex, or could involve multiple structures in the spine.

Treatment for a herniated disc at Northstar Joint and Spine is highly personalized and may involve a combination of first-line and more advanced therapies depending on the patient’s needs. Conservative approaches often include physical therapy, activity modifications, and medication management to control pain and inflammation. For individuals who need additional support, options such as epidural steroid injections, facet medial branch blocks, sacroiliac joint injections, and spinal cord stimulation are available. The focus of treatment is on building a collaborative treatment plan that addresses the individual’s symptoms, promotes healing, and restores quality of life without undergoing surgical options unless necessary.

Herniated disc treatment is available at Northstar Joint and Spine. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment. We are conveniently located at 7704 San Jacinto Pl Suite #200 Plano, TX 75024. We serve patients from Plano TX, Willow Bend TX, Frisco TX, Allen TX, Addison TX, North Dallas TX, and surrounding areas.