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• Mild Disc Protrusion

Mild Disc Protrusion

A mild disc protrusion is a condition in which an intact intervertebral disc extrudes beyond its normal cylindrical perimeter in the spinal column. This condition often occurs because a disc’s weak, thinning walls cannot withstand the pressure of fluids contained within the disc.

Generally, a mild disc protrusion would be a focal protrusion, meaning less than 90 degrees of the total disc circumference is protruding beyond its normal boundaries. A broad disc protrusion, on the other hand, involves between 90 and 180 degrees of circumference protruding outside normal boundaries.

As the body ages, the structural integrity of the intervertebral discs (the padded shock absorbers between each vertebra) begins to break down. When any part of the disc pushes past its designated space, it may interfere with the surrounding spinal canal. For instance, a mild disc protrusion can press its way into the foramina (the open canals between the vertebrae that allow spinal nerves to enter and exit). If even one foramen (open space) is constricted, stress can be transferred directly to a nerve root.

Fortunately, some patients are able to find relief from mild disc protrusion symptoms with conservative, non-invasive treatments, including:

• Low-impact exercise – maintaining mobility and flexibility is crucial. Swimming and walking, gentle stretching, and range of motion exercises can help the body stay agile.
• Physical therapy –physical therapy that focuses on the spine can help relieve tension and increase circulation in the affected area. A therapist also may train patients on proper posture and lifting techniques.
• Medication – over-the-counter or prescription pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce pain so that physical therapy is more bearable.
• Steroid injections – an injection of cortisone, an anti-inflammatory, will temporarily help pain that results from the nerve compression accompanying a mild disc protrusion.

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The above disc protrusion treatments will not prove effective for every patient, and if disc protrusion becomes more severe, the patient may need to seek relief through other means.

Laser Spine Institute (LSI) is at the forefront of endoscopic technology for the back and neck. We offer a variety of minimally invasive, laser-assisted procedures that are performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is very short after our procedures, which means LSI has helped tens of thousands of people rediscover a life without pain much faster than they thought possible. Contact us today for a free review of your MRI or CT scan, and to receive more information.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.