Herniated discs are interesting. They can go unnoticed for months or even years before exhibiting symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or other sensations. When symptoms do develop, it is important to consult with a spine specialist. This specialist could be a chiropractor or an orthopedist. It is important that whomever you see orders x-rays and perform a thorough neurological examination before any treatment is administered. Ideally, people who are experiencing persistent or recurring back pain should schedule a consultation and examination with a spinal surgeon. Having a consultation with a spine surgeon does not mean that you will automatically be referred for surgery and it is often quite the opposite.
Although a spinal surgeon specializes in surgical interventions, we also believe that conservative treatments should be exhausted first before recommending surgery. These conservative treatments may include chiropractic care, physical therapy, or injections. These recommendations are subjective from patient to patient and dependent upon your unique situation.