At Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, we understand that a lumbar L5-S1 herniated disc can be a painful and debilitating condition. The L5-S1 disc is located at the bottom of the lumbar spine, and when it herniates, it can put pressure on the nearby nerves, causing back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and feet. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.
A lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation can be caused by a number of factors, including aging, degenerative disc disease, poor posture, and injury. As we age, the discs in our spine lose their elasticity and become more prone to injury. Degenerative disc disease, which is a natural part of the aging process, can also cause the discs to weaken and herniate. Poor posture, especially sitting for long periods of time, can put pressure on the discs and increase the risk of herniation. Finally, injury, such as a fall or car accident, can also cause a lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation.
The symptoms of a lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation can vary depending on the severity of the herniation and the location of the affected nerve. Common symptoms include low back pain, leg pain, numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, and weakness in the legs or feet. In severe cases, a lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation can cause loss of bladder or bowel control, which requires immediate medical attention.
There are a number of treatment options available for a lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation, ranging from conservative, non-surgical treatments to more invasive surgical procedures. Conservative treatments may include rest, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and pain management (such as over-the-counter pain medications or prescription medications). In some cases, spinal injections, such as epidural steroid injections, may also be used to alleviate pain and inflammation.
If conservative treatments are not effective, or if the herniation is severe, then there are non-surgical minimally invasive procedures that can be performed on an outpatient basis. Our team is highly trained and experienced in treating this condition, and we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Some of the treatment options available are:
Dr. Wiederholz is a pioneer in the field of minimally invasive spine treatments in Houston, having been personally trained by the inventor of the Discseel® Procedure, Dr. Kevin Pauza. Since 2020, Dr. Wiederholz has been at the forefront of this innovative treatment, making him the first in Houston to perform the Discseel® Procedure and establishing him as the leading local expert.
The Discseel® Procedure is a revolutionary treatment that offers a non-surgical solution to chronic back and neck pain. As a disciple of Dr. Pauza, Dr. Wiederholz has mastered the technique, providing patients with a safe, effective, and long-lasting relief from their pain.
Choosing Dr. Wiederholz for your Discseel® Procedure means choosing a physician who has trained under the best, and who is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care. His expertise and commitment to patient wellbeing make him the trusted choice for those seeking to avoid surgery and improve their quality of life.
A lumbar L5-S1 disc herniation can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, you can regain your mobility and quality of life. At Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for this condition, and our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the care you need to get the low back pain relief you deserve.
If you have low back pain due to a L5-S1 herniated disc and would like to explore minimally invasive treatment options, we would be happy to arrange a consultation with Dr. Matthias Wiederholz. He is available for the Discseel® Procedure and other minimally invasive procedures in Houston, Texas and Lawrenceville, New Jersey and will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to help you get back to the daily activities you enjoy.
