A disc extrusion occurs in the lumbar spine (lower back) when the disc’s gel-like center herniates outside of the disc’s tough outer layer and into the spinal column. The lumbar spine’s primary function is to bear the body’s weight and endure stresses such as bending, lifting and twisting. This condition can often result from strain on the body as we age as well as from traumatic injury or pressure caused by excess weight.

As a result, debilitating symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness and weakness can present in the lower back as well as the buttocks and legs if the sciatic nerve becomes irritated. By reading the information provided in the following article, you can stay educated about your diagnosis and learn about the types of conservative therapy available for this condition and well as when surgical intervention becomes an option.

Conservative treatments for lumbar disc extrusion

Surgery is typically used as a last resort for lumbar disc extrusion depending on the severity of your symptoms. Based on your diagnosis, your doctor will first develop a conservative treatment regimen that best fits your specific condition. This may include:

• Anti-inflammatories
• Muscle relaxants
• Pain medications
• Chiropractic manipulation
• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Epidural steroid injections

However, if several weeks or months of this treatment do not provide adequate relief from your symptoms, it may be necessary to see a surgeon for your lumbar disc extrusion.

Lumbar disc extrusion surgery

If your doctor has recommended locating a surgeon to treat your lumbar disc extrusion, we know you may have many options to choose from. As you are conducting your research and evaluating your options, keep in mind that at USA Spine Care our commitment to excellence has earned us a patient satisfaction score of 98 and our streamlined patient experience has allowed us to eliminate hospital-associated costs and help our patients quickly get back to their daily routine.^ To learn more about the benefits of our minimally invasive procedures, contact our caring team today.

Our board-certified surgeons+ have helped more than 75,000 patients find relief from chronic neck and back pain, setting us apart as the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery. By using a small incision that is muscle-sparing, we are able to remove the portion of the disc that is extruded and creating the discomfort you have been experiencing, ultimately allowing you to recapture your quality of life from this debilitating condition. To find out if you are a potential candidate for our minimally invasive disc extrusion surgery, reach out to our dedicated team and ask for a no-cost MRI review.*

Browse Related Resources