Herniated Disc Treatment in Louisville, KY

Female athlete with low back pain

A herniated disc is a common spine condition that affects one of the soft, gel-filled cushions that separate the vertebrae. Normally, the discs absorb shock and help the spine bend, flex, and extend. Through sudden trauma or gradual wear and tear, a disc can tear open (herniate), allowing some of its inner gel to seep into the spinal canal. Even so, a herniated disc may not cause pain or require treatment unless some of the escaped fluid presses on a sensitive nerve root.

In addition to neck or back pain, an irritated or compressed spinal nerve can cause numbness, tingling sensations, or muscle weakness. If you have herniated disc symptoms, you can consult with a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. When you visit our location in Louisville, Kentucky, we will perform a physical examination and order imaging studies to determine whether your discomfort can be traced to a herniated disc or another spine condition. Then, we can suggest an appropriate treatment plan to help you feel better.

Will You Need Surgery?

Although herniated disc treatment can vary based on the severity of the symptoms, most patients do not elect surgical treatment. In many cases, the discomfort improves with a few weeks of rest and conservative therapy, such as:

  • Postural improvement
  • A heating pad or ice pack applied to the painful area of the neck or back
  • Targeted stretches and low-impact exercises
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Prescription-strength medications, such as muscle relaxants and epidural steroid injections

Because herniated disc symptoms often respond well to nonsurgical treatment, we usually advise our patients to give their treatment regimen sufficient time to work (sometimes up to several months) before considering surgery.

If you’d like to meet with a spine specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our location in Louisville, KY.

What our patients are saying
Shaun H.
I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.
Reviews from Google
Joanna S.
Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.
Reviews from Facebook
Sara G.
Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!
Reviews from Facebook
Juanita S.
The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.
Reviews from Facebook
Erin Z.
This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!
Reviews from Facebook
See All Reviews
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

4130 Dutchman's Lane,
Suite 300,Louisville 40207
(502) 897-1794

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

1425 State St.,
,New Albany 47150
(812) 920-0408

Locations
*MAIN LOCATION
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
4130 Dutchman's Lane
Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40207

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
1425 State St.
New Albany, IN 47150