Herniated Disc

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience persistent pain in your lower back, buttocks, leg, or foot that disrupts your daily activities.
You have pain that radiates down one leg, often described as sharp, shooting, or burning (sciatica).
You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your leg or foot.
You've recently had an injury that may have caused a herniated disc.
Your back pain hasn't improved with home remedies like rest and over-the-counter pain medication after a few weeks.
You're concerned you might have a herniated disc and want to discuss treatment options.
You experience sudden and severe weakness, numbness, or loss of feeling in your leg(s).
You experience sudden and severe pain in your back, buttocks, or leg.
You lose control of your bladder or bowels.
You experience fever along with back pain (possible infection).
You have concerns your symptoms might indicate a serious complication from a herniated disc.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience persistent pain in your lower back, buttocks, leg, or foot that disrupts your daily activities.
You have pain that radiates down one leg, often described as sharp, shooting, or burning (sciatica).
You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your leg or foot.
You've recently had an injury that may have caused a herniated disc.
Your back pain hasn't improved with home remedies like rest and over-the-counter pain medication after a few weeks.
You're concerned you might have a herniated disc and want to discuss treatment options.
You experience sudden and severe weakness, numbness, or loss of feeling in your leg(s).
You experience sudden and severe pain in your back, buttocks, or leg.
You lose control of your bladder or bowels.
You experience fever along with back pain (possible infection).
You have concerns your symptoms might indicate a serious complication from a herniated disc.

Do’s:

Prioritise rest: Give your body time to heal, especially in the initial stages. Avoid strenuous activities that could aggravate the herniated disc.
Apply ice or heat: Use ice packs for short periods (15-20 minutes) to reduce inflammation, and switch to heat therapy later to promote healing and pain relief.
Maintain good posture: Practise proper posture while sitting, standing, and lifting objects. This reduces stress on your spine.
Perform gentle exercises: Physical therapy exercises can strengthen core muscles that support your spine and improve flexibility.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your spine. Losing weight, if necessary, can alleviate symptoms.
Explore pain management options: Medications like pain relievers and muscle relaxants can help manage pain and discomfort.
Consider alternative therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy, or yoga may offer additional pain relief and promote relaxation.

Don'ts:

Ignore pain: Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention for persistent or worsening pain.
Strain your back: Avoid heavy lifting, twisting motions, or activities that cause significant pain.
Sit for extended periods: Take frequent breaks and get up to move around every 30 minutes to prevent stiffness and further strain.
Smoke: Smoking restricts blood flow and can hinder healing.
Self-medicate: Consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications for pain relief.
Ignore red flags: If you experience sudden and severe weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control, seek immediate medical attention. These could indicate a serious complication.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe the pain you're experiencing (location, intensity, character - sharp, burning, dull)?
Does the pain radiate down one leg (sciatica)?
When did the pain start?
What activities seem to worsen or improve your pain?
Have you experienced any recent injuries to your back?
Do you experience any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs or feet?
Do you have any difficulty with walking, standing, or sitting for extended periods?
Have you noticed any changes in your bowel or bladder function?
Do you have any other medical conditions, such as arthritis or osteoporosis?
Are you currently taking any medications?
Have you ever had any previous back problems or injuries?
What is your occupation? (Certain jobs involve heavy lifting or awkward postures that can contribute to herniated discs)
Do you participate in any regular physical activities?

1.Symptoms

What are the common symptoms of a herniated disc?

The most common symptom of a herniated disc is pain. This pain can vary depending on the location of the herniation. In the lower back, it may cause pain radiating into the buttock and leg, often described as sciatica. You may also experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg or foot. In some cases, a herniated disc in the neck can cause pain and weakness in the arm or hand.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

How can I tell if I have a herniated disc and not another condition?

While herniated disc symptoms can be distinct, it's important to see a specialist for proper diagnosis. At LIPS, our team will perform a thorough examination to rule out other causes of back pain, such as muscle strain or arthritis.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

What tests are used to diagnose a herniated disc?

LIPS utilises various diagnostic tools to pinpoint a herniated disc. This may include:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Neurological testing to assess nerve function
- Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to visualise the spine
- Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information

How long does it take to get diagnosed with a herniated disc?

During your initial consultation at LIPS, our specialists will work efficiently to reach a diagnosis. The timeline may depend on the complexity of your case and any necessary tests. In many cases, a diagnosis can be confirmed on the same day.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What treatment options are available for herniated discs at LIPS?

LIPS offers a personalised treatment approach for herniated discs. This may include:
- Conservative measures like pain medication, physical therapy, and activity modification in most cases.
- Minimally invasive procedures (in some cases)
- Surgery (as a last resort)
- Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information

How long does it take for a herniated disc to heal?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your herniation and the chosen treatment approach. Our team at LIPS will develop a plan tailored to your needs to help you achieve optimal recovery as quickly as possible.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Please don't hesitate to inquire about your specific insurance plan. We can help you navigate the insurance process and ensure you receive the best possible care for your herniated disc.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.