At Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, our board-certified providers use proven diagnostics and individualized care to treat spine conditions. Dr. Kendrick Khoo, a fellowship-trained spine surgeon from UC Davis, and Dr. Serena Liu, a specialist in minimally invasive and motion-preserving techniques, work together to help patients regain mobility and confidence.
What Triggers Inflammation with a Herniated Disc?
When a disc slips or ruptures, it irritates nearby nerves and soft tissue. That irritation causes your body to release inflammatory chemicals. These chemicals cause swelling, which puts pressure on your spinal nerves. The result? Sharp pain, muscle tightness, and limited movement. Here’s what typically contributes to spinal inflammation:
- Disc fluid exposure: Inner disc material leaks out and aggravates nerve roots.
- Immune response: Your body reacts to the disc as a foreign substance.
- Tissue swelling: Local swelling crowds already narrow nerve spaces.
These responses are part of your body’s attempt to heal, but can also cause severe discomfort.
How Inflammation Intensifies Back Pain
Pain from a herniated disc goes beyond the initial injury. While the disc rupture itself causes structural damage, it’s often the resulting inflammation that intensifies discomfort. Inflammation irritates nearby nerves, making them hypersensitive to even mild stimuli. Simple actions like walking, bending, or coughing can trigger sharp, persistent pain. This increased nerve sensitivity is a key reason why symptoms may persist long after the initial herniation occurs.
Strategies That Help Reduce Inflammation
Managing inflammation can significantly reduce your discomfort. Here are several options that our specialists may recommend:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Physical therapy: Gentle movement improves circulation and reduces stiffness.
- Epidural steroid injections: Deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication near affected nerves.
- Hot and cold therapy: Ice calms swelling; heat relaxes tense muscles.
- Nutrition and hydration: Anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3s support healing.
Combining these approaches often provides relief without surgery.
When to See a Spine Specialist
If pain persists beyond a few weeks or worsens, it’s time to seek professional care. Watch for these signs:
- Numbness or tingling: Especially if it radiates down your arm or leg.
- Muscle weakness: Trouble lifting or standing can indicate nerve compression.
- Sudden changes: Loss of bowel or bladder control requires urgent evaluation.
Prompt care from our spine experts can stop inflammation from leading to permanent damage.
Reclaim Comfort With Targeted Spine Care
You don’t have to live with nagging back pain. Contact Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, at 503-253-4000 to explore your options for herniated disc relief today.
