Q:I think I have a herniated disc, what is the best way for me to get a diagnosis?

A:If you have not had an MRI or CT scan, it will be beneficial to do so. Your general practitioner will be able to write a prescription for you so that you can get one taken. Once you have those results, you can send the report to our office for a free medical review and assessment.

Q:What causes a herniated disc?

A:Anything can cause herniations - aging, working, or taking a good fall. When pressure overcomes the disc material it can herniate. If a disc becomes too weak, the outer part may tear. The inside part of the disc pushes through the tear and presses on the nerves beside it.

Q:Where should I turn to next for help to relieve my pain and the symptoms caused by my herniated disc?

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A:Most patients try physical therapy, injections, pain management, or chiropractic care. Although this may relieve pain temporarily, it does not permanently fix the problem. We suggest you view our page dedicated to herniated disc treatment and discover how our minimally invasive procedure can help you reclaim your freedom while increasing the quality of your lifestyle.

Q:Can I have a herniated disc and not have any symptoms?

A:Yes, some people can have a bulge or herniation and not even know it. Symptoms of a herniated disc typically include pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in the extremities.

Q:Will hardware affect my surgery?

A:Many patients with hardware have successful results with our surgery. Some may even be candidates for hardware removal. We can also remove scar tissue buildup from previous surgery. We will have to take a look at your MRI report or films to get a better idea on whether or not we would be able to help.

Q:How long is the rehabilitation period?

A:The recuperation time is minimal because we use an endoscope to enter the body. This instrument stretches and pushes the muscles aside instead of cutting through them; causing less trauma, scar tissue and blood loss than traditional procedures. Typically patients with a sedentary job or lifestyle can return to work within a few days. Those whose occupation or lifestyle requires heavy lifting or manual labor should wait approximately 6 weeks to return to these types of activities. More specific instructions are given to each individual by our physicians and staff following a patient's procedure.

Q:What is the difference between a bulge and herniation?

A:A bulge is when the interior part of the disc (nucleus pulposus) becomes irritated and begins to push on the outer wall of the disc, causing the wall to bulge and possibly put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves exiting the spinal cord.

A herniation is a more extreme bulge, in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc allows the soft, central portion (nucleus pulposus) to bulge out. This tear in the disc ring can put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves exiting the spinal cord.

Answer

The endoscope and arthroscope are the exact same instrument. They are small tubes through which surgery is performed. When the tube is placed into a joint, it is referred to as an arthroscopic procedure (arthro meaning joint). When the tube is placed into an area other than a joint, it is called an endoscope. At LSI, we perform endoscopic procedures.