Herniated Disc Surgery Orange County & Irvine, CA

There are more than a few names related to spinal disc pathology, generally associated with intense pain, terms like “herniated” or “bulging” disc, or “pinched nerve”. Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, adding to the lack of clarity.

Disks are rubbery cushions between the vertebrae that stack in order to make your spine. These spinal disks are like a filled pastry, soft centers surrounded by a stronger, tougher exterior. A slipped, ruptured or herniated disc happens when the softer exterior pushes through cracks in the strong exterior.

A herniated disc can disrupt a person’s life in a major way. It can result in pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg or a combination of the two. Most herniated discs will occur in your lumbar spine (lower back), but they can also occur in your cervical spine (neck). Luckily, most people who experience a herniated disc will not need to have open surgery.

The primary goal for Gerald Alexander MD is to relieve pain and all other symptoms resulting from the herniated disc. To reach this end, each approach is carefully considered based upon each patient’s individual situation. Of course if surgery is avoidable, we’d prefer to take that route.

Contact Dr. Alexander today and we’ll discuss your options. Together we’ll figure out the best course of action and the best way to move forward.