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What Are the Symptoms of a Torn Disc?

Those who experience continued neck or back pain often wonder if they are afflicted with a spinal condition such as a torn disc. If you think you may be suffering from a tear in your intervertebral disc, you are probably wondering, “What are the symptoms of a torn disc?” Continue reading to learn about the symptoms and treatment options for this spinal condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a torn disc can vary from patient to patient, while some cases even remain completely asymptomatic. However, the following symptoms are most commonly associated with this spinal condition:

• Dull, sharp, burning, or shooting pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle spasms

The location of these symptoms may vary depending on the site of the affected disc. A torn disc in the cervical spine (the neck) may cause discomfort in the neck, shoulders, or arms, while a disc tear in the thoracic spine (the middle back) may cause patients to experience symptoms in the ribs, torso, mid back, or inner arms. Patients with a torn disc in the lumbar region (lower back), which is the most common location for this condition, may experience discomfort in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, or feet.

How to Alleviate Symptoms

Most doctors will begin treatment for a torn disc with conservative therapies. This may include over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, steroidal injections, hot/cold therapy, or intermittent rest. Some patients also find relief from alternative treatments such as yoga, Pilates, and acupuncture. Patients should always discuss treatment options with their doctors, especially when medications or exercise programs are involved.

The first step toward finding relief from neck or back pain is to discuss your symptoms with your primary care physician. If the conservative treatments (such as pain medication and physical therapy) prescribed by your doctor are providing little relief, contact Laser Spine Institute. Our safe and effective endoscopic procedures have helped tens of thousands of patients discover their lives without neck and back pain.

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