A herniated disc occurs when a portion of the vertebral disc ruptures. Through the ruptured portion, the inner central portion of the disc (nucleus pulposus) is pushed out into the spinal canal on nerves in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar areas. Because the spinal canal has limited space, the displaced disc presses on the nerves which can often lead to numbness and pain. Smaller herniations are sometimes called protrusions. Continue reading about the causes and symptoms of a herniated disc, or use the following link to learn about the possible treatment options for herniated discs.

Cervical Herniated Disc Causes:

Degeneration due to the normal aging process, trauma and an episode of lifting a heavy object.

To properly diagnose a herniated disc, your orthopedic doctor may order imaging tests such as:

• X-Rays
• MRI
• CT Scan

A CT Scan and/or MRI can show the soft tissue of herniated discs. Furthermore, it can also show the actual stage and location of the herniation. At Spine & Orthopedic Center, our orthopedic doctors and surgeons specialize in treating herniated discs. Our facilities are also equipped for proper and efficient diagnosis of a herniated disc such as:

• Digital X-Rays
• MRI equipment
• Laboratory
• Procedure Suite