Herniated Disc Doctor in

in Plainfield, Romeoville, and Naperville, Illinois

Herniated Disc Doctor in Naperville, Romeoville and Plainfield, IL

Absolute Integrated Health Center has a top doctor who specializes in herniated disc treatment. We also offer treatment for slipped disc, bulging discs, and sciatica. Request a consultation or call a location near you to schedule an appointment!

When should I see a doctor for a herniated disc?

You should call your doctor if your pain is intense or if it lasts for longer than a few weeks. As well, if your pain gets worse, or if you experience numbness or weakness that extends into your shoulders, arm, or hand, see a doctor immediately. You may need tests such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to diagnose and locate the problem. Lastly, when you see your doctor, discuss your medical history so that your doctor knows how long you have been experiencing pain and what activities help or worsen the pain.

How do you find out if you have a herniated disc?

A herniated disc can occur anywhere in your spine, from the neck to the lower back. However, they are more common in the lower back and a herniated disc can put pressure on the surrounding nerves and muscles. Some of the symptoms of a herniated disc include: pain and numbness, commonly on one side of your body; pain that extends to your arms and legs; pain that worsens at night or with movement; pain that worsens after periods of sitting or standing; pain when walking short distances; muscle weakness with no traceable or identifiable cause; tingling, aching, or a burning sensation in the affected area. If your pain results in numbness or tingling, or affects your ability to control your muscles, see your doctor immediately.

Herniated discs are diagnosed in a process. Firstly, your doctor will perform a physical exam to locate the source of your discomfort and pain, which involves checking your nerve function and muscle strength and if you feel pain when the area is moved or touched. As well, your doctor will discuss your medical history and symptoms with you. Along with a physical exam, imaging tests such as x-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and discograms are useful in the diagnosis of a herniated disc.

What treatment is available for herniated disc?

Like any pain management or treatment, there are many treatment options available for a herniated disc, and the treatment plan that you and your doctor decide on will be unique to you and your needs. Surgery is usually a last resort, and most treatment plans begin with non-surgical pain management and treatment options.

Your pain management and treatment regime for a herniate disc may include: physical therapy; ice and heat therapy for pain relief; manipulation (such as chiropractic or massage therapy); non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), both over-the-counter and prescription; narcotic pain medications; oral steroids, which are used for the treatment of inflammation and pain relief; and epidural injections.

However, if your herniated disc does not respond well to non-surgical treatments that last from four to six weeks, then surgical intervention may be required. You should speak with your physician if your pain and symptoms do not subside with treatment.

Is a herniated disc serious?

Yes, herniated discs are a serious medical condition. If left untreated, a severe herniated disc can lead to permanent nerve damage and, in severe rare cases, may even cut off nerve impulses to the cauda equina nerves, which may cause you to lose control of your bowel or bladder. If you suspect that you may have a herniated disc, you should see a doctor immediately to begin treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with a herniated or slipped disc or suspect that you may have one, then we at Absolute Integrated Health Center are here to help. Please contact us online through our website, over the phone, or visit us at either of our two convenient locations to book an appointment or consultation.