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Herniated Disc Specialist

The disc is a combination of strong connective tissues which hold one vertebra to the next and acts as a cushion between the vertebrae. As you get older, the center of the disc may start to lose water content, making the disc less effective as a cushion. This may cause a displacement of the disc’s center called a herniated or ruptured disc through a crack in the outer layer, often referred to as a “pinched nerve.”

Symptoms of a herniated disc may be one or all of the following:

  • Back pain
  • Pain in the chest and extremities (arms, shoulders, legs)

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  • Numbness or a tingling sensation in the extremities
  • Weakness in the extremities
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control (extremely rare) This may indicate a more serious problem called cauda equina syndrome. This condition is caused by the spinal nerve roots being compressed. It requires immediate medical attention.
The herniated disks, if they’re in the lumbar region, can also irritate the roots of the sciatic nerve which is why a lot of patients also experience symptoms of sciatica.
 
Any injury to the vertebrae can have consequences for the spinal cord in the spinal canal, the central nervous system’s connection between the brain and the body that runs through the center of the vertebrae. Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or death. Beyond general and acute pain, nerve pain, and numbness caused by a herniated disc, injury to the spinal cord can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis of the entire body from the neck down.

MEDICAL ATTENTION

If you suspect you might have a herniated disc, contact us today. A spine expert at Dr. Hamid Mir’s spine centers will evaluate the bone and connective tissue displacement and pattern in order to decide whether spine surgery is needed.

In the case of traumatic injury or fracture as a cause of or resulting in a herniated disc, it may be difficult to assess at first evaluation the extent of injuries to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine. It is important that while at the scene accident, first check vital signs, including the patient’s consciousness, ability to breathe, and heart rate. After these are stabilized, emergency workers will assess obvious bleeding and limb-deforming injuries.

Before moving the patient, you must immobilize the patient in a cervical (neck) collar and backboard. The trauma team will perform a complete and thorough evaluation in the hospital emergency room.

TREATMENT

Nonsurgical treatments include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and epidural steroid injections.

Only a small percentage of patients with disc herniations require spine surgery. Surgery is typically recommended only after a period of nonsurgical treatment has not relieved painful symptoms. Microdiscectomy is most common, involving the removal of the herniated part of the disk and any fragments that are putting pressure on the spinal nerve.

Most patients with a herniated disc do not require formal physical therapy after surgery. When your surgeon confirms that your incision is healed, you may begin a rehabilitation exercise program. A simple walking program 30 minutes each day, along with flexibility exercises for the back and legs, can be done as a home program. If needed, your surgeon will refer you to a physical therapist.

RISK FACTORS

The following are the risk factors of developing a herniated disc:

  • Gender. Men between the ages of 30 and 50 are most likely to have a herniated disc.
  • Improper lifting. Using your back muscles to lift heavy objects, instead of your legs, can cause a herniated disc. Twisting while you lift can also make your back vulnerable. Lifting with your legs, not your back, may protect your spine.
  • Weight. Being overweight puts added stress on the discs in your lower back.
  • Repetitive activities that strain your spine. Many jobs are physically demanding. Some require constant lifting, pulling, bending, or twisting. Using safe lifting and movement techniques can help protect your back.
  • Frequent driving. Staying seated for long periods, plus the vibration from the car engine can put pressure on your spine and intervertebral discs.
  • Sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise is important in preventing many medical conditions, including a herniated disc.
  • Smoking. It is believed that smoking lessens oxygen supply to the disc and causes more rapid degeneration.

Naturally, it is recommended to stay healthy by not or quitting smoking, eat a healthy diet that is rich in calcium and vitamins, and exercise regularly. In addition, it is important to be conscious of your posture when you’re walking and when you’re sitting.

Orange County Spinal Surgeon

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Dr. Hamid R. Mir M.D.

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon & Back, Spine, & Neck Specialist

Dr Hamid Mir is a board certified orthopedic spine surgeon & back, spine, & neck specialist with fellowship training in combined neurosurgery and orthopedic spine surgery. He has offices in Orange County, Los Angeles & Riverside. Dr Mir specializes in spinal fusion, lumbar surgery and treating trauma as well as other conditions affecting the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine including degenerative diseases, stenosis, fracture, infection, adult scoliosis, revision, and complex reconstructions.

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Testimonials

You are more than just a patient.

I was in a very bad situation herniating a disc in my lower back so I made an appointment with DISC and Dr. Hamid. The Doctor was very professional and made me comfortable that he understood exactly what I was going through and was able to communicate effectively exactly what it will take to get me on the road to recovery. It took several months as my injury was severe however I always felt I was in good hands under Dr. Hamid’s supervision…If you ever have the misfortune of injuring your circuit board of your body (spine) you need a pro, do not take advice from anyone who’s not specifically licensed to help, Dr Hamid is who I chose and I’m very thankful.
- Matteo B
- Matteo B
Dr. Mir saw me about 2 months before the procedure and indicated that I had severe stenosis or narrowing of the openings where the nerve roots exit at the L4, L5 and S1 level. He reviewed my MRI and without wasting any time, asked if I wanted or was considering surgery. He was extremely clear and answered all my questions. I had the procedure done at the Disc Newport OP surgery center and was cared for by an incredibly competent, caring staff. I was discharged same day and my post op recovery was 2 weeks, and returned to work July 15th. The procedure was very successful as my pain is basically gone. Amazing relief from a procedure done by a great doctor with a great staff!
- Stan W.
- Stan W.
Dr. Mir is an excellent spine surgeon. had a surgery on my neck by another surgeon but I was still in pain. A friend who had prior surgery with Dr. Mir recommended him to me. He is very detail oriented, confident, and knowledgeable. His staff is very friendly and helpful. I decided to have a second operation on my neck. Soooo thankful I have no pain.
- Hillary C.
- Hillary C.
Dr. Mir and his entire staff take the extra time and consideration to shape alternatives to meet the needs (holistically) of the patient. Everything about the experience of my surgery was positive. Dr. Mir is patient and compassionate. His communication skills are remarkably attentive. We are six months out of the starting gate from surgery, and with PT and core strengthening exercises, this 65 yr. old is back to regular training for next year’s marathon. Thank you kindly El Doc-tor….you are amazing! See you soon.
- Lorena B.
- Lorena B.

Dr. Hamid Mir is a member of American Board of Orthopedic Surgery with fellowship training in combined neurosurgical and orthopedic spine surgery at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in 2004. As a top rated spine surgeon, he specializes in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine diseases including degenerative, stenosis, fracture, infection, scoliosis, revision, and complex reconstructions.

Dr. Mir focused his practice on minimally invasive techniques. As Medical Director of DISC Sports & Spine Center, Dr. Mir is at the forefront of the field of minimally invasive spine surgery. The benefits of these techniques include less post-operative pain, quicker recovery reduced blood loss, less soft tissue damage, smaller surgical incisions, less scarring and improved function.

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