Understanding Disc Prolapse and Sciatica
By Dr. VijayKumar D | SV Ortho Care

The human spine is made up of bones called vertebrae, and between each vertebra lies a disc. These discs act as natural shock absorbers, allowing flexibility and cushioning in your spine.

Each disc has:

A soft, jelly-like center called the nucleus pulposus

A tough outer ring called the annulus fibrosus

Just behind these discs run the spinal cord and nerve roots, enclosed within the spinal canal.

🧠 Disc Bulge vs. Disc Prolapse – What’s the Difference?
A disc bulge (often seen on MRI) is common and usually not serious. Most people may not feel any symptoms.

A disc prolapse (commonly known as a “slipped disc”) is more serious. Here, the nucleus pulposus tears through the annulus fibrosus and pushes into the spinal canal, sometimes pressing on nearby nerves.

⚡ Symptoms Based on Disc Location
Lumbar (Lower Back) Disc Prolapse
Can press on nerves going to the legs

Causes sciatica – shooting pain, numbness, or tingling down one or both legs

Cervical (Neck) Disc Prolapse
Can press on nerves going to the arms

Causes neck pain with radiating arm pain, weakness, or numbness

🚨 When Is It Serious?
Cauda Equina Syndrome (Rare but Urgent)
A large disc in the lower back may compress all nerve roots, causing:

Difficulty passing urine

Loss of bladder/bowel control

Numbness in the saddle area
This is a medical emergency and needs immediate surgical intervention.

Cervical Myelopathy
A large disc in the neck may compress the spinal cord, causing:

Difficulty walking or balance issues

Poor grip or hand coordination

Urinary problems

If untreated, these conditions can lead to permanent nerve damage, making early diagnosis and timely surgery essential.

🧪 MRI and Diagnosis
MRIs help identify the location and severity of the prolapsed disc. At SV Ortho Care, we use high-resolution imaging and expert interpretation by Dr. VijayKumar D to tailor the best treatment plan.

MRI Examples at SV Ortho Care:

Far lateral disc prolapse

Post-operative MRI showing complete disc removal

Cervical disc prolapse compressing nerve root

🛌 Do All Disc Prolapses Need Surgery?
No. Most cases improve without surgery.

👨‍⚕️ Conservative Treatment Options:
Rest and activity modification

Pain-relieving medications

Physiotherapy and spinal rehabilitation

Short hospital-based observation (if required)

🩺 When Is Surgery Advised?
Surgery is recommended when:

Pain is severe and unrelenting

There’s no improvement after 4–6 weeks of conservative treatment

There’s nerve weakness, loss of bladder control, or myelopathy

🔧 Surgical Options at SV Ortho Care:
Minimally invasive techniques ensure faster recovery, minimal pain, and early return to work. Most surgeries are done as daycare or overnight procedures.

Surgical options include:

Endoscopic Discectomy

Microdiscectomy

Mini-open Discectomy

Conventional Discectomy

The choice of procedure is personalized based on the type of disc prolapse, nerve compression, and patient profile.

✅ Post-Surgery Recovery
Most patients walk the same or next day

No need for belts or long-term restrictions

Early return to work and daily activities

🧘 Back to Living, Pain-Free
Disc prolapse is treatable – and most importantly, manageable. At SV Ortho Care, we prioritize non-surgical recovery wherever possible, and deliver surgical excellence when needed.

Consult Dr. VijayKumar D today for a complete evaluation and reclaim your spine health.