If you own your home, one of your primary responsibilities is keeping your yard looking nice. It’s not merely a responsibility; it can be great source of pride to look out on a manicured lawn, well-trimmed shrubbery and healthy trees. But if you are diagnosed with nerve compression caused by a bulging disc in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) region of your spine, the pain, tingling, numbness or muscle weakness can make even the simplest outdoor task into an excruciating chore.

Finding the right specialist

If chronic neck or back pain is forcing you to neglect your yard work, see your physician. If an initial diagnosis of a bulging disc is made, you may want to visit a spine specialist. But how will you know what kind of specialist to see? Talk to your physician about the differences among orthopedic specialists, neurologists, chiropractors and others. Then, once you’ve determined what kind of specialist is best suited to treat your condition, begin your research before selecting someone in particular:

• Ask for a recommendation from your primary care physician.
• Ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Research physicians online at the websites for the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
• Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.
• Don’t simply pick the first physician you interview; seek a second opinion.
• Make sure you choose a physician you’re comfortable with, someone whose personality doesn’t clash with yours.

Minimally invasive treatment for bulging discs

Among the options you might want to consider are the minimally invasive, outpatient procedures performed at USA Spine Care. The orthopedic surgeons at USA Spine Care have helped tens of thousands of people find meaningful relief from neck and back pain. Contact USA Spine Care to schedule a consultation or for a review of your MRI or CT scan.