A slip disc, also known as a herniated disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. As a Senior Consultant Brain & Spine Surgeon in Koregaon Park, Pune, Dr. Mahesh Kumar offers expert evaluation and advanced surgical solutions for patients with severe or persistent disc problems.
Causes of Slip Disc A herniated disc can develop due to:
- Age-related wear and tear (degenerative disc disease)
- Sudden injury from lifting heavy objects incorrectly
- Repetitive spinal strain from sports or work
- Poor posture over long periods
- Obesity, which adds pressure on the spine
- Genetic predisposition to spinal weakness
Symptoms of Slip Disc Not all herniated discs cause symptoms, but when they do, they may include:
- Sharp or shooting back or neck pain
- Pain radiating down the arms (cervical disc herniation) or legs (lumbar disc herniation)
- Tingling or numbness in extremities
- Muscle weakness, making it hard to lift or hold objects
- Worsening pain with certain movements like bending or twisting
In severe cases, loss of bladder or bowel control (medical emergency)
Diagnosis of Slip Disc To confirm the condition, Dr. Mahesh Kumar performs:
- Physical and neurological examination to assess strength, reflexes, and sensation
- MRI scan for detailed imaging of disc and nerve involvement
- CT scan or X-rays to rule out other spinal conditions
- Nerve conduction studies if nerve damage is suspected
Non-Surgical Treatment Options Most patients improve with conservative care, which may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physiotherapy for strengthening and posture correction
- Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatories
- Epidural steroid injections for inflammation reduction
Surgical Treatment Options Surgery is considered when symptoms persist beyond several weeks of non-surgical care, or if there is significant nerve compression. Dr. Mahesh Kumar specializes in:
1. Microdiscectomy
A minimally invasive surgery to remove the herniated portion of the disc and relieve nerve pressure.
2. Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Uses a small camera and instruments through tiny incisions for faster recovery and minimal muscle damage.
3. Laminectomy
Removes a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create space for the spinal cord and nerves.
4. Artificial Disc Replacement
Replaces the damaged disc with an artificial one to preserve motion and spinal flexibility.
Recovery and Prevention Post-surgery, patients usually return to normal activities within weeks, depending on the procedure. Preventive steps include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Practicing good posture
- Regular exercise to strengthen back and core muscles
- Avoiding heavy lifting without proper technique
Expert Spine Care in Koregaon Park, Pune Dr. Mahesh Kumar offers comprehensive treatment for herniated discs, combining precise diagnosis, advanced surgical techniques, and personalized recovery plans. With patient safety as a priority, he ensures optimal outcomes for both pain relief and spinal function restoration.
Location: Koregaon Park, Pune
Contact: Book an appointment for specialized slip disc evaluation and treatment.
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