West Orange, N.Y.-based Atlantic Spine Center's Kaixuan Liu, MD, PhD, dispelled some misconceptions about herniated discs.
Dr. Liu is a founder and the president of Atlantic Spine Center. He completed his minimally invasive spine surgery fellowship at Advanced Orthopedics of South Florida, with six locations.
Here are five myths, according to Dr. Liu:
1. Many people believe herniated discs are always a result of injury. Dr. Liu countered that genes as well as natural wear may lead to slipped discs. A herniated disc is often the consequence of an activity plus a weakened outer disc layer.
"Although something specific seemed to make the slipped disc occur, I tell patients it was probably going to eventually happen anyway," said Dr. Liu.
2. Dr. Liu noted that people believe herniated discs always cause pain. Pain, however, is not a guarantee with herniated discs. Depending on the impinged nerve and the patient's anatomy, a person may experience no symptoms.
3. Although many think so, herniated discs are often not medical emergencies.
4. Dr. Liu also said most herniated discs do not require surgery. In fact, anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, cortisone injections, physical therapy, heat, ice and muscle relaxants are all powerful alternatives to surgery.
"Nine times out of 10, slipped discs get better without surgery," said Dr. Liu.
5. If surgery is the chosen route, Dr. Liu said outpatient minimally invasive surgery presents a quicker, safer and more effective approach than the open technique.