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Herniated Disc

Herniated Disc Treatment in Brooklyn, NY

A herniated disc occurs when the inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes or leaks through its outer layer, potentially irritating nearby nerves. Because symptoms can vary widely depending on the location and severity of the herniation, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, herniated discs are evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying the primary pain generator and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.

Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in image-guided spine and nerve care.

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What Is a Herniated Disc?

An intervertebral disc acts as a cushion between the bones of the spine. A herniated disc—sometimes called a slipped or ruptured disc—occurs when the disc’s inner material pushes through a weakened area of the outer layer. This can place pressure on nearby nerve roots and lead to pain, numbness, or weakness.

Herniated discs most commonly occur in the:

Cervical spine

(neck)

Lumbar spine

(lower back)

Not all herniated discs cause symptoms, which is why imaging findings must be interpreted in the context of a clinical evaluation.

Common Herniated Disc Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location of the disc and whether nearby nerves are affected. Common symptoms may include:

Because similar symptoms can occur with other spine conditions, further evaluation is often required.

  • Neck or low back pain

  • Pain radiating into the arm or leg

  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities

  • Muscle weakness in the affected limb

  • Pain worsened by certain movements, coughing, or prolonged sitting

Common Causes of Herniated Discs We Evaluate

Herniated discs can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

  1. Age-related disc degeneration

  2. Repetitive stress or overuse

  3. Sudden lifting or twisting injuries

  4. Poor posture or biomechanical strain

  5. Traumatic injury to the spine

  6. Progressive weakening of the disc over time

How a Herniated Disc Is Evaluated

Evaluation focuses on determining whether the disc herniation is responsible for a patient’s symptoms. A physician-led assessment may include:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination

  • Neurological testing of strength, sensation, and reflexes

  • Review of prior imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), when available

  • Image-guided diagnostic injections, when appropriate, to confirm the pain source

This structured approach helps distinguish symptomatic disc herniations from incidental imaging findings.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc

Treatment recommendations depend on symptom severity, nerve involvement, and functional goals. Non-surgical options may include:

All procedures are performed under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance for precision and safety and are selected as part of a broader care plan.

When a Specialist Evaluation May Help

You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:

  • Pain radiates into the arm or leg

  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness develops

  • Symptoms persist despite physical therapy or medications

  • Imaging shows a disc herniation, but surgery is unclear or undesired

  • Pain interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities

A comprehensive evaluation can clarify whether a disc herniation is responsible for symptoms and outline appropriate next steps.

Related Spine & Nerve Conditions

Schedule a Herniated Disc Evaluation

If symptoms related to a herniated disc are limiting your movement or quality of life, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and determine the most appropriate non-surgical care.

Book an Appointment