Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people seek medical care, and one potential cause is a disc herniation, sometimes referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc. When a spinal disc becomes damaged, it can irritate nearby nerves and lead to pain that radiates into the arms or legs. For many individuals, this condition interferes with work, sleep, and everyday movement.
At Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants, patients benefit from expert evaluation under the leadership of Assistant Medical Director Nathan Perrizo, DO. Board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation with subspecialty certification in Pain Medicine, Dr. Perrizo completed both his residency and fellowship training at UCLA. He works closely with a skilled team of providers to ensure patients receive precise diagnoses and targeted, minimally invasive treatment options focused on long-term relief and functional restoration.
What Is a Disc Herniation?
Your spine is made up of bones called vertebrae, cushioned by small oval discs that act as shock absorbers and allow flexibility. Each disc has a tough outer layer (annulus) and a soft inner layer (nucleus).
A disc herniation happens when a portion of the soft inner material breaks through the outer layer and extends into the spinal canal, where it may affect surrounding nerves. This may cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back or neck, sometimes radiating into the arms or legs.
Some herniated discs cause no symptoms, but when nerve irritation occurs, medical evaluation and treatment may be necessary.
Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Cervical (neck) disc herniations may cause pain that radiates into the shoulder or arm, while lumbar (lower back) disc herniations can lead to sciatica, with pain traveling down the leg.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Sharp or burning pain
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Increased pain with certain movements or positions
Prompt evaluation is important, especially if symptoms worsen or begin to interfere with daily function
How Is a Disc Herniation Treated?
Treatment depends on symptom severity and nerve involvement. Many cases improve with conservative care, including activity modification, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.
If pain persists, image-guided procedures may be recommended to reduce nerve inflammation and relieve pressure on the nerve. Dr. Perrizo uses fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance to ensure precise, minimally invasive treatment that relieves pain and restores function while helping patients avoid unnecessary surgery.
Is Disc Herniation Treatment Right for You?
You may benefit from evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent back or neck pain
- Pain radiating into the arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Symptoms that do not improve with rest
Dr. Perrizo performs a thorough assessment, reviews imaging when appropriate, and develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition and goals. His background in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation emphasizes restoring function alongside relieving pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Herniated Disc Heal Without Surgery?
Many herniated discs improve over time with non-surgical treatment, particularly when inflammation is properly managed.
Is a Herniated Disc the Same as a Bulging Disc?
While related, a bulging disc involves outward extension of the disc without rupture, whereas a herniated disc involves a tear in the outer layer with inner material protruding.
When Should I Seek Immediate Care?
If you notice abrupt loss of bladder or bowel control, severe muscle weakness, or a rapid increase in symptoms, seek prompt medical assessment.
Why Choose Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants for Disc Herniation?
Nathan Perrizo, DO, brings advanced training and subspecialty certification in Pain Medicine to the treatment of spinal conditions. After completing his residency in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at UCLA, he pursued fellowship training in Interventional Pain Management, gaining specialized expertise in spine-focused, image-guided procedures.
Dr. Perrizo’s experience as a Senior Medical Officer in the United States Navy reflects his commitment to precision, leadership, and patient-centered care. At Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants, patients benefit from advanced diagnostic evaluation, minimally invasive treatment options, and a comprehensive approach focused on lasting results.
Disc Herniation Treatment in Oceanside, CA
If back or neck pain is affecting your daily life, Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants provides expert care in Oceanside, CA, with a secondary location in Encinitas, CA. Call 760-753-1104 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
