Herniated Disc

What Is a Herniated Disc?

The intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, absorbing shock and supporting the spine. When a disc degenerates or herniates and compresses a nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness along the affected nerve. Herniated discs are most commonly found in the neck and lower back.

Symptoms: Neck or back pain, Pain radiating down the arm or leg, Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, Muscle weakness, In severe cases, problems with bladder or bowel control

Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment

Most patients can be treated without surgery, including:

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery may be considered for patients with severe symptoms or those who do not respond to non-surgical treatment, including:
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How Is the Surgery Performed?

Depending on the location and severity of the condition, surgery may involve minimally invasive surgery or endoscopic spine surgery (Endoscopic Surgery) to remove the herniated disc that is compressing the nerve, while preserving as much of the normal spinal structures as possible.

Hospital Stay

Approximately 1–3 days

Recovery Time

  • Most patients can walk the day after surgery
  • Return to light work in approximately 2–4 weeks
  • Continue recovery for approximately 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Common symptoms include neck or back pain, pain radiating down the arms or legs, numbness, and muscle weakness. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the herniated disc and the nerve being compressed.
A herniated disc can have several causes, including aging, lifting heavy objects with improper posture, repetitive bending or twisting, landing awkwardly, and accidents.
No. Most patients can be treated without surgery, such as with medication, physical therapy, activity modification, and weight management in some cases. Surgery may be considered when symptoms are severe or do not improve with other treatments.
Surgery may be considered for patients with persistent severe pain, difficulty walking, or symptoms that do not improve with non-surgical treatment. The decision is based on the patient’s symptoms and examination results.
The surgical approach depends on the location and severity of the condition. In some cases, minimally invasive or endoscopic spine surgery (Endoscopic Surgery) can be performed to remove the herniated disc compressing the nerve while preserving as much of the normal spinal structure as possible.
Most patients can begin walking the day after surgery and typically stay in the hospital for approximately 1–3 days. Returning to light work may take around 2–4 weeks, while continued recovery may take approximately 3–6 months.

Medical Team

นพ. ปรัชญ์ กำลังสินเสริม

Prach Kamlangsinserm, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery Specialized in Arthroscopic Surgery
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นพ. พัลลภ ถิระวานิช

Panlop Tirawanish, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery Specialized in Endoscopic Spine Surgery
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พญ ชุติมา ลีวัชรารุ่งเจริญ

Chutima Leewatchararoonjaroen, M.D.

Anesthesiologist Specialized in Regional Anesthesia
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