![]() ![]() Treatment options are usually quite conservative at first, and can include bed rest, time, acupuncture, over-the-counter pain medications, steroids, muscle relaxants, occupational therapy, and injections. Treatments for ruptured discs vary, depending on the location and severity of damage. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, an individual with a herniated disc should be referred to a major spine center for a full evaluation and individual treatment plan. It may identify if there is nerve damage or nerve compression. Usually a CT scan follows the Myelogram.Įlectromyogram and Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS): This test measures the electrical activity in the nerves and muscles. Myelogram: This special x-ray uses dye, which is injected into the spinal fluid. An MRI scan can also show evidence of previous injuries that may have healed and other details in the spine that can’t normally be seen on an x-ray. An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio-frequency waves to create an image of the spine, and can reveal the details of the disc, the nucleus (the jelly-like substance within) and the annulus ( the firm outer layer). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are the best tools for diagnosing a slipped disc. A CT scan may show evidence of a ruptured disc. If a slipped disc is suspected, the physician will usually order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.Ĭomputerized tomography (CT) is a noninvasive procedure that uses x-rays to produce a three-dimensional image of the spine. The physician will gather history and symptoms and conduct a physical examination. A normal disc is shown at bottom.Ī herniated disc is often diagnosed by a physician after a patient complains of back, neck or extremity pain. At right: The top disc has herniated, or "slipped," and is pressing on a nerve. A herniated disc can occur in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back).
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