Herniated Disc

The multidisciplinary team at UT Southwestern Medical Center offers all available evidence-based treatments for herniated discs – both medical and surgical.

At the Spine Center, we perform some interventional procedures, such as epidural injections, on an outpatient basis. This type of treatment can result in tremendous benefits, quickly decreasing inflammation.

About Herniated Discs

Herniated discs are known by many names, such as slipped, ruptured, bulging, compressed, or prolapsed discs. 

A herniated disc occurs when one of the cushioned discs between the 26 vertebrae of the spine ruptures, allowing the jelly-like substance it contains to leak, possibly impinging on the nearby spinal cord or nerves. Disc problems can cause sciatica, back pain, and weakness.

Diagnosis

If our doctors suspect that a patient has a herniated disc, we’ll conduct a physical examination and order spine imaging studies.

Tests, procedures, and imaging studies used to diagnose herniated discs might include:

• Bone scans
  
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
  
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  
• Myelography
  
• Nerve conduction studies to measure electrical activity generated by muscles and nerves
• X-rays
  

Treatment for Herniated Discs

The spine specialists at UT Southwestern treat herniated discs with therapies that include:

• Anti-inflammation drugs
  
• Biofeedback
  
• Cortisone injections
  
• Physical therapy
  
• Surgery
  

Clinical Trials

UT Southwestern conducts clinical trials aimed at improving the treatment of herniated discs. Talk with our doctors to see if a clinical trial is available.