Treatment Options for Pain Caused by Herniated Discs

If you’re dealing with sharp, shooting pain in your neck, back, or legs, there’s a chance a herniated disc is to blame. Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, this common spine condition can compress nearby nerves and lead to debilitating symptoms, especially when left untreated.

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we offer a full range of treatment options for herniated disc pain, from conservative therapies to advanced interventional procedures. In this guide, we’ll explain what a herniated disc is, how it causes pain, and which treatments can help relieve discomfort and restore your mobility.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Between each vertebra in your spine sits a cushion-like disc that acts as a shock absorber. These discs have a soft, gel-like center (nucleus) surrounded by a tough outer layer (annulus). A herniated disc occurs when the inner material pushes through a tear or weakness in the outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves.

Herniated discs are most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine), but can occur anywhere along the spine.

Common Symptoms of Herniated Discs

• Localized neck or back pain
• Pain radiating down the arm or leg (sciatica)
• Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations
• Muscle weakness in the affected limb
• Increased pain with movement, coughing, or sitting for long periods

Not everyone with a herniated disc experiences pain, but when the disc presses on spinal nerves, the symptoms can significantly affect daily life.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Herniated Disc Pain

Physical Therapy

Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles that support your spine, improve flexibility, and reduce nerve compression. A physical therapist can also guide you through postural training to relieve pressure on the affected disc.

Medications

Over-the-counter NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications to address more persistent symptoms.

Epidural Steroid Injections

For patients who don’t find relief with physical therapy or medication, epidural steroid injections may be recommended. This involves injecting anti-inflammatory medication directly into the space around the spinal nerves to reduce swelling and ease pain.

These injections are minimally invasive and performed under X-ray guidance for precision. Many patients report significant pain relief that allows them to resume physical therapy and daily activities.

Advanced Interventional Treatments

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we also offer advanced pain management procedures for herniated disc pain that hasn't responded to conservative treatments.

Nerve Blocks

Spinal nerve blocks use local anesthetic and steroids to interrupt pain signals at the nerve root. This can reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief while healing takes place.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

In select cases, radiofrequency ablation can be used to disrupt nerve signals responsible for chronic back or leg pain. RFA is a non-surgical option that uses heat to safely disable problematic nerves, offering relief that can last several months.

Spinal Cord Stimulation

For patients with severe or long-term nerve pain related to disc herniation, spinal cord stimulation may be an option. A small device is implanted to deliver mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, helping to block pain signals before they reach the brain.

When Is Surgery Needed?

While most people with herniated discs improve without surgery, it may be necessary in certain cases—especially when:

• Pain is severe and unresponsive to other treatments
• There is progressive muscle weakness or loss of function
• Bladder or bowel control is affected (a medical emergency)

Surgical procedures, such as microdiscectomy or laminectomy, aim to remove or relieve pressure from the herniated disc. At Greater Austin Pain Center, we work closely with trusted spine surgeons when surgical consultation is appropriate.

Personalized Care for Herniated Disc Pain in Austin, TX

Every patient’s experience with a herniated disc is different, which is why we offer personalized treatment plans based on your specific symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. Our team uses diagnostic imaging, physical exams, and targeted procedures to get to the root of your pain and provide effective, long-lasting relief.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you’re struggling with pain from a herniated disc, you don’t have to live in discomfort. At Greater Austin Pain Center, we offer compassionate care, cutting-edge treatments, and a commitment to helping you get your life back. Come visit us in Austin, San Marcos, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and throughout the Austin area. 

Call today or schedule your consultation online to explore your treatment options and start your journey to recovery.