Herniated Disc Treatment in St. Louis

When a Disc Acts Up, Everything Does

Over time, a herniated disc can press on nerves and throw off your entire routine. Maybe it’s shooting pain down your leg or that strange tingling in your arm. Either way, it’s not just discomfort, it’s disruption.

What Exactly Is a Herniated Disc?

Between each bone in your spine is a cushion-like disc that absorbs shock and helps you move smoothly. When part of that disc pushes out, usually due to wear, injury, or strain, it can irritate nearby nerves and trigger pain, weakness, or numbness.

This condition can happen in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) and often comes with symptoms that vary depending on where the disc is pressing.

Spot the Signs of a Herniated Disc

While not all back or neck pain points to a herniated disc, it’s important to watch for these common symptoms

Pain that radiates to the arms, shoulders, buttocks, or legs
Numbness or tingling in the hands, fingers, feet, or toes
Muscle weakness or difficulty lifting objects
Increased discomfort with bending, twisting, or sitting
Sharp or burning pain on one side of the body

How We Diagnose It

We start with a detailed discussion about what you’re experiencing, where it hurts, how long it’s been happening, and how it affects your movement. Then, our Spine Specialist uses advanced tools to get a clear view of your spine

Movement Testing

Helps us understand functional limitations

MRI or CT Scan

Shows disc damage and nerve involvement

Neurological Exam

Checks strength, reflexes, and sensation

Solutions That Suit You

Not every herniated disc needs surgery. In fact, most patients get better with non-invasive care. Our Herniated Disc Doctor in St. Louis will create a treatment plan that works and aligns with your routine, comfort level, and pace.

Non-Surgical Options

Therapeutic Exercise

Restore strength and flexibility

Techniques

Relieve pressure without surgery

Pain-Relieving Injections

Reduce nerve inflammation for better mobility

Posture & Movement Coaching

Learn how to move smarter, not harder

Medication Management

For short-term relief while healing progresses

When Surgery Is Needed

If symptoms are severe or if conservative care is not improving your condition, surgery may be considered. Our surgical team focuses on precision and minimally invasive options when possible.

Nerve-Relief Disc Surgery

Removes the disc portion pressing on a nerve

Spine Pressure Relief

Widens the canal to ease pressure

Disc Replacement

Replaces a damaged disc to restore function

Advanced Care, Built Around You

We start with the full picture

Not just scans, but how the pain fits into your everyday life.

We don’t rush to extremes

Most plans begin with real-world solutions, not operating rooms.

We’re realistic and responsive

We guide you through options and adjust as your body responds.

We meet you where you are

physically, emotionally, and personally.

If you’re searching for herniated disc treatment in St. Louis, we’re here with both the experience and empathy to help you move forward without the guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my back or neck pain is from a herniated disc?

Common signs include pain that radiates down your arm or leg, tingling or numbness, and weakness in specific muscles. A proper diagnosis through imaging and a clinical exam is key.

Do all herniated discs require surgery?

Not at all. Many cases improve with conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or targeted injections. Surgery is typically a last resort.

What causes a disc to herniate in the first place?

It can be sudden, like lifting something too heavy, or gradual, due to aging, poor posture, or repetitive strain. Even prolonged sitting can contribute over time.

How long does recovery from a herniated disc take?

It depends on the severity and treatment approach. Some people feel better in a few weeks with non-surgical care, while post-surgical recovery can take several weeks to months.

Can a herniated disc heal on its own?

In many cases, yes. With rest, therapy, and inflammation control, the disc can improve over time. But ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist.