Herniated Disc and Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis and disc herniation, a condition that affects more than 3 million people in the United States each year, are linked. At Arora Pain Clinic in Torrance, California, board-certified pain management specialist Ripu Arora, MD, MBA, treats pain caused by herniated discs and spinal stenosis, easing your discomfort without invasive procedures. Schedule an evaluation today by calling the South Bay office or using the online booking feature.

What are herniated discs and spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis, often caused by degenerative spinal changes, is the narrowing of your spinal canal. Herniated or bulging spinal discs (discs with protective jelly-like centers that protect each vertebra) can lead to nerve impingement and pain. 

Disc herniation may contribute to spinal stenosis, and spinal stenosis can worsen the effects of disc herniation. Therefore, these two conditions are closely linked. Treating a herniated disc often relieves the discomfort associated with spinal stenosis. 

What are the symptoms of herniated discs and spinal stenosis?

Symptoms of herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or both may include:

• Neck and back pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Radiating pain
• Muscle cramping
• Balance or coordination problems

If these or similar symptoms are severe or ongoing, see Dr. Arora for an evaluation and long-term pain relief. 

What increases the risk of disc herniation and spinal stenosis?

Risk factors for developing disc herniation and spinal stenosis include:

• Aging
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Connective tissue disorders
• Obesity
• Thickened ligaments
• Bone overgrowth 
• Cysts
• Tumors
• Fractures
• Heavy lifting

However, the exact causes of spinal problems aren’t always clear. Some are congenital, meaning they are present at birth, while others develop because of wear-and-tear or injuries.

How are herniated discs and spinal stenosis diagnosed?

Diagnosing herniated discs and spinal stenosis often requires physical and neurological exams, a discussion about your symptoms and medical history, nerve testing, and imaging procedures (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc.). Dr. Arora customizes a pain-reducing treatment plan based on your specific needs.

How are herniated discs and spinal stenosis treated?

Treatment for disc herniation and spinal stenosis may consist of:

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture 
• Stretching exercises 
• Massage
• Manual manipulation
• Nerve blocks 
• Stem cell and regenerative cell therapy
• Platelet-rich plasma (RPP) injections 
• Anti-inflammatory medicines
• Corticosteroid medications
• Nucleoplasty of discs
• Epidural injections 
• Percutaneous endoscopic laser discectomy (PELD)
• Radiofrequency ablation 
• Spinal cord stimulation 
• mild®

The mild procedure is a safe treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis that removes excess ligaments or pieces of bone, widening the spinal canal. 

Dr. Arora may suggest more than one treatment based on the cause and severity of your discomfort. He follows up to ensure effective, long-lasting relief and adjusts your treatment plan whenever necessary.

Schedule a herniated disc and spinal stenosis evaluation at Arora Pain Clinic by phone or online today to ease ongoing discomfort.