A herniated disc occurs when the cushion-like discs between the vertebrae rupture or bulge, putting pressure on nearby nerves. The condition causes severe pain, numbness, and weakness along the spine, though it is more common in the lumbar region (lower back). Our team at Interventional Pain Doctors can administer several treatments to help combat debilitating pain caused by herniated discs. From epidural pain management to PRP therapy, our patients can find lasting pain relief and improve their quality of life with our innovative treatments.
Epidural Injections
Pain management specialists frequently use an epidural shot for herniated disc symptoms. Through this procedure, the epidural space—the area of fat, blood, and nerves surrounding the spinal cord—receives an injection of steroid medication that works to alleviate pain.
How Do Epidural Injections Work?
- Steroid medication used in epidural injections has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- After the injection, the body reduces the production of inflammatory chemicals in the damaged disc.
- This suppresses the immune response and interrupts pain signals sent to the brain, numbing the affected nerves.
- Epidural pain management typically requires three sessions to alleviate pain from herniated discs.
PRP Therapy
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses the body's natural restorative properties to relieve pain from herniated discs. Platelets and stem cells in our blood can help stimulate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
- Our California back doctors extract a small sample of the patient's blood, separating the platelets and stem cells using a centrifuge.
- After separating these components, specialists inject the platelet-rich plasma into the damaged disc.
- Since platelets and stem cells play a crucial role in cellular regeneration, delivering a concentrated dose to the pain site gives the body’s natural healing process a boost.
- Patients often report a faster recovery time and fewer side effects.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that offers long-lasting pain relief for herniated discs. Unlike PRP and epidural pain management injections, this treatment destroys nerve fibers that transmit pain signals from affected discs to the brain.
How Does RFA Work?
- Doctors insert a small electrode into the epidural space surrounding the herniated disc.
- The electrode emits energy that heats and destroys nerve fibers transmitting pain signals.
- The procedure is relatively quick and painless, with most patients experiencing immediate relief.
- RFA provides pain relief for several months to a year, though patients must repeat the procedure once the nerve fibers regrow.
Trust Our Epidural Pain Management Experts
Living with a herniated disc can be challenging, but our team at Interventional Pain Doctors offers an array of treatment options to help patients fight through their symptoms and get back to doing the things they love. Whether through epidural pain management or minimally invasive procedures, patients can find the right treatment path to reduce pain, restore function, and regain control over their lives. Discover our full scope of interventional management treatments and begin your wellness journey.