Herniated Disc Pain

Back pain is extremely common. In fact, it’s the most reported type of pain on the planet, with up to 80% of people experiencing low back pain at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, many people experience back pain that doesn’t respond to traditional pain relief techniques. This can lead to limited mobility and even disability.

One of the most common sources of chronic back pain is a herniated disc.

Here’s what you should know about herniated disc pain and its treatments.

What is a Herniated Disc?

The human spine, which runs from the base of the skull to the pelvis, is comprised of 33 bones called vertebrae. Only the 24 bones at the top of the spinal column--in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions--are moveable. The bones at the bottom, in the sacrum and coccyx, are fused.

The vertebrae of the spine are stacked on top of each other with small, cushiony discs in between. These discs are comprised of 80% water and have a tough outer ring (the annulus) with a soft, gel-like center (the nucleus).

A disc is considered herniated when its jelly-like nucleus pushes into the outer annulus. Because the spinal canal is narrow, a herniated disc can press against the outerlying nerves of the spinal column. Many individuals with herniated discs experience no symptoms. Others experience severe pain, tingling, numbness and even muscle weakness.

When the annulus is cracked or ruptured, the nucleus of the spinal disc can leak out into the spinal canal.

What Causes Herniated Discs?

Most herniated discs are caused by age-related wear and tear or injury. Being overweight may also contribute to disc herniation, since excess body weight puts extra strain on the spinal column.

The most common symptoms of a herniated disc include:

Pain. Typically, herniated discs occur in the cervical region (the neck) or the lumbar region (the low back). Pain is often felt in these areas, with many individuals experiencing shooting pains that extend to the arms, shoulders or fingers.

Sciatica. For herniated discs in the lumbar region of the spine, sciatica is the most commonly reported symptom. Sciatica is characterized by shooting pains that extend down the buttocks or through the backs of the legs.

Numbness. The nerves that are impacted by the herniated disc can cause localized numbness.

Tingling. The nerves affected by a herniated disc may cause localized tingling.

Weakness. A herniated disc may impact surrounding muscles and cause a feeling of weakness.

Herniated Disc Treatment + Pain Relief

There are several treatments for disc herniation that can relieve pain, tingling, numbness and weakness.

The most common treatments are rest and physical therapy. Stretching and regular exercise can help relieve the amount of pressure placed on the spinal nerve root. Over-the-counter medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and narcotics are also commonly used to treat herniated disc pain. For individuals experiencing muscle spasms, muscle relaxants are a good treatment option.

When pain doesn’t respond to traditional treatments, epidural steroid injections may be recommended. Eventually, surgery may be recommended for chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

Pain Treatment Centers of America is proud to specialize in a variety of treatments for herniated disc pain.

Make your appointment with PTCOA today by calling (844) 215-0731.

When Pain Isn’t Structural: Understanding Neuropathic Pain

June 26, 2026
Pain is often associated with injury, arthritis, or another structural problem in the body. However, not all pain comes from damaged bones, joints, muscles, or tissues. Sometimes, the nervous system itself causes discomfort. This pain is called neuropathic pain and can greatly affect quality of life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients determine the source of their symptoms and develop personalized plans to manage chronic nerve pain effectively. What Is Neuropathic Pain? Neuropathic pain happens when nerves are damaged, irritated, or dysfunctional. Unlike pain from injury or inflammation, it results from abnormal signaling within the nervous system. These disrupted signals cause the brain to sense pain even without ongoing tissue damage. Patients commonly describe neuropathic pain as burning, tingling, shooting, electric-like, or stabbing. Some may experience numbness, elevated sensitivity to touch, or pain that seems disproportionate to any physical findings. Common Causes of Neuropathic Pain Neuropathic pain can develop from a variety of conditions that affect the nerves or nervous system. Some common causes include: Diabetes-related nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) Herniated discs are causing nerve compression Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord injuries Stroke-related nerve damage Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy Symptoms can vary widely, so proper evaluation is key for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment. Neuropathic pain is often challenging to identify because imaging exams like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may not always reveal the source of the problem. Patients may experience significant pain despite having slight structural abnormalities. A complete evaluation includes medical history, physical exam, neurological assessment, and diagnostic tests when needed. Identifying nerve involvement is critical because neuropathic pain often responds differently to treatment than musculoskeletal pain. Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain Successful treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause when possible while reducing symptoms and improving function. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment options may include: Medication management designed specifically for nerve pain Nerve block injections Physical therapy and rehabilitation Spinal cord stimulation Lifestyle alterations Interventional pain management procedures Many benefit from an approach that combines several therapies for the best outcomes. When to Seek Professional Care Persistent burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent worsening symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. If you have ongoing pain not connected to a structural injury, it may be time to explore if neuropathic pain is the cause. An extensive evaluation can determine the source of your symptoms and identify the most effective treatments. Personalized Neuropathic Pain Treatment at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand that chronic pain is complex and every patient’s experience is unique. Our team uses sophisticated diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to identify nerve-related pain and create individualized care plans to improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent nerve pain symptoms, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, we can develop a treatment plan designed to help you regain control of your daily activities and move toward lasting relief.
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Understanding Medications & Pharmacologic Options for Pain Management

By Bob Berendsen • February 1, 2026
Chronic or acute pain has the potential to significantly impact your daily life, making even everyday tasks a hassle. Pain Treatment Centers of America believes that knowing your medication options is a crucial step in building an appropriate, personal pain management strategy. While many treatment options are available, pharmacologic therapy has been the peak of comprehensive care. Types of Medications Used in Pain Management Pain medications are not universalized. The selection of the right prescription depends on the pain type, severity, and medical history. Common categories include: 1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, tend to be the first line of defense for low levels of pain. They reduce swelling and provide comfort associated with conditions like arthritis, back pain, or joint injuries. In some patients, however, they can affect the stomach or kidneys. Therefore, careful studying and dosing guidance from a professional is key. 2. Acetaminophen Acetaminophen is mostly for general pain reduction and is sometimes combined with other treatments. Unlike NSAIDs, it doesn’t target swelling. Nonetheless, it can be effective for pain relief and daily improvement. 3. Muscle Relaxants For pain caused by muscle spasms or tension, muscle relaxants can provide relief. These medications work by calming overactive muscles and are usually prescribed for short-term use to prevent dependency or side effects. 4. Antidepressants and Anti-Seizure Medications Certain antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs can treat neuropathic (nerve) pain. They work by altering how the nervous system processes signals of pain throughout your body. Even if you do not experience depression or seizures, these medications assist with pain control. 5. Opioids Opioids are strong pain-relieving medications chosen for more potent pain when other options aren’t doing the trick. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we practice strict guidelines to minimize risks, evaluate patient progress, and ensure healthy, responsible use. A combination of Opioids can be introduced to other treatments as part of a multimodal pain management plan. Personalized Pain Management The effectiveness of medications is best when combined with other therapies; physical therapy, interventional procedures, and lifestyle changes. We work closely with each patient to structure a plan that focuses on the root cause of pain, not just the signs. Every treatment plan is carefully engineered, giving thought to variables like medical history, existing conditions, and possible side effects. Patients are taught how to use the medication safely, dosing schedules, and expectations of each prescription. Take the Next Step Understanding your medication options enables you to take charge of your pain and improve your life overall. If you’re having issues with chronic or acute pain, our professionals at Pain Treatment Centers of America will gladly help. We mix the most up-to-date pharmacologic therapies with personalized care to provide comfort, improve function, and enhance your total well-being. Schedule a consultation today to learn which pain management medications are a good fit.
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