A disc protrusion is a condition that typically develops as part of the natural aging process and occurs when a spinal disc becoming misshapen and extends outside of its normal boundaries. This condition may not produce any symptoms at all unless it comes in contact with a nerve root or the spinal cord. When this occurs, a disc protrusion can cause a range of symptoms that include chronic pain, numbness and tingling that extends into the extremities, muscle weakness and limited mobility.

Disc protrusion treatment options

Because there are many conditions that can affect the spine, consulting with a physician is necessary to confirm a diagnosis. The first step in treating a disc protrusion is to take a conservative approach, which may include a combination of:

• Hot and cold compresses
• Pain medications
• Corticosteroid injections
• Physical therapy and low-impact exercises

Additionally, some individuals have found symptom relief through alternative treatments, including therapeutic massage, chiropractic manipulation, yoga and acupuncture. For most, a combination of several disc protrusion treatment options will sufficiently alleviate symptoms.

Treatment at USA Spine Care

When conservative treatments are not enough to relieve the pain and other symptoms caused by a protruding disc, your physician may suggest that you consider surgery. Spine surgery can be performed as a traditional open procedure or as a minimally invasive procedure. Patients choose minimally invasive surgery because it can require a less than a 1-inch incision and often has a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery.^{^}

At USA Spine Care, our surgeons are highly experienced in performing minimally invasive spine procedures that have already helped more than 75,000 patients find relief from their spinal conditions. To learn more about disc protrusion treatment at USA Spine Care and to find out if you’re a candidate for one of our minimally invasive procedures, contact us today for a no-cost MRI review.*

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