Most commonly disc degeneration related to aging with the addition of a tear in the annulus that allows the nucleus pulposus to extrude into the canal causing a disc herniation.
When this happens, the herniated back disc can apply pressure on the adjoining sensory nerve root or the spinal cord, which may cause pain or discomfort both at the affected site and throughout other parts of the body.
Your doctor may try outpatient treatments may include: Hot and cold modalities, Over-the-counter or prescription medication, Stretching, conditioning, and strengthening, Improved posture and diet, and Physical therapy.
Pain related to disc herniation not responsive to conservative measures may be treated with gentle minimally invasive procedures such as laminotomy or foraminotomy to decompress the nerve and relieve the pain of disc herniation.