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This would depend on a variety of factors. Is the disc protruding, extruding or completely sequestered? Other factors would be age and other health factors that would inhibit healing. Other considerations would be conservative vs surgical treatment for the condition. The best case scenario, a protruding disk that is managed by conservative treatment, (anti-iflammitory medication/physical therapy) would resolve in several weeks. The worst case, a sequestered disk that needs surgery might take several months/years to resolve depending on the extent of spinal chord/nerve impact. in some cases, due to degenerative disc disease, and the nature of disc material itself (lumbar discs are made up primarily of two types of cartilage-like proteins that are not readily able to heal themselves like other tissue) the disc herniation will not heal itself without surgical intervention. It should be noted that surgical options such as selective microscopic-discectomy have improved healing times for disc herniation significantly. In any surgical case, a thorough discussion with an orthopedist is essential. Traditional surgery for herniated lumbar discs completley and permanently sever some tendon/conective tissue - but generally has success relieving pain initially. Microdiscectomy has a lower rate of successfully eliminating pain in some studies, and has been studied less than traditional discectomy. Ten-year success rates for discectomy patients of both types of surgery is lower than 75% in most accepted studies - as pain/discomfort often returns over time.

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Q: How long does it take for herniated lumber disc to heal?
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Can a slipped disc in the neck cause dizziness and headaches How long does it take for the symptoms of a slipped disc to go away?

A slipped disc in the neck, also known as a cervical herniated disc, can indeed cause a range of symptoms, including dizziness and headaches. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the connection between cervical herniated discs and these symptoms. Understanding Cervical Herniated Discs Before delving into the relationship between cervical herniated discs and symptoms like dizziness and headaches, it's essential to understand what a herniated disc is. The spine consists of a series of vertebrae, and between these vertebrae are soft, cushion-like structures called intervertebral discs. These discs have a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a jelly-like inner core (nucleus pulposus). A herniated disc occurs when the inner core protrudes through the outer layer. In the cervical spine (neck region), a herniated disc can put pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord itself. This pressure can lead to various symptoms depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Symptoms of Cervical Herniated Discs Cervical herniated discs can manifest in a variety of ways. While neck pain is a common symptom, they can also cause referred pain and neurological symptoms. Two of the most concerning symptoms associated with cervical herniated discs are dizziness and headaches. 1. Dizziness: Vertigo: The pressure on cervical nerves or the spinal cord can disrupt the balance and coordination centers in the brain, leading to vertigo. Vertigo is characterized by a spinning sensation and can be quite debilitating. Cervicogenic Dizziness: This is a specific type of dizziness linked to neck problems like cervical herniated discs. It often presents as unsteadiness and dizziness when moving the neck. 2. Headaches: Cervicogenic Headaches: Cervicogenic headaches result from referred pain originating in the neck. The pain typically radiates from the neck to the head, often on one side, and can be mistaken for migraines or tension headaches. The Connection between Cervical Herniated Discs and Dizziness/Headaches The link between cervical herniated discs and dizziness or headaches lies in the nerve compression and irritation caused by the herniation. When a herniated disc in the neck compresses nerves or affects blood flow, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the nervous system. This disruption can lead to various symptoms, including dizziness and headaches. Dr. Rao K. Ali: Pain Management Specialist in Fort Worth If you are experiencing dizziness and headaches due to a cervical herniated disc, it is essential to seek professional medical advice. Dr. Rao K. Ali is a highly qualified pain management specialist practicing in Fort Worth, Texas, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spine-related pain conditions, including herniated discs. Treatment Options for Cervical Herniated Discs Dr. Rao K. Ali offers a range of treatment options for cervical herniated discs, customized to each patient's specific needs. Some of the common treatments available at the Pain Management Clinic in Fort Worth include: Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the neck muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain. Medication Management: Dr. Ali may prescribe medications to manage pain, inflammation, and neurological symptoms. Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections can provide targeted pain relief by reducing inflammation and pressure on the affected nerves. Minimally Invasive Procedures: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like cervical epidural nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation may be recommended to provide long-term pain relief. Surgical Consultation: If conservative treatments are ineffective, Dr. Ali can refer you to a qualified spine surgeon for a surgical evaluation. Duration of Symptoms and Prognosis The duration of symptoms associated with a cervical herniated disc can vary from person to person. Factors that influence the timeline for symptom resolution include: Severity of Herniation: The extent of disc herniation and the degree of nerve compression play a significant role. More severe herniations may take longer to heal. Treatment Approach: The type of treatment received can also impact recovery time. Some patients experience rapid relief with conservative treatments, while others may require more extensive interventions. Individual Factors: Your overall health, age, and the presence of other medical conditions can affect your body's ability to heal. Compliance with Treatment: Following the prescribed treatment plan and recommendations from Dr. Ali is essential for a successful outcome.


Spinal Disc Herniation?

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A long piece of sawed lumber or wood?

....board....


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