Slipped disc (disc bulge) treatment in Dubai

Where in Dubai

Dr. Subhash Ushakoyala, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, sees patients with a slipped disc at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai. If you have had an MRI, bring the images on a disc or link as well as the written report, because the pictures show more than the report. Tell him which movements and which hours of the day make the pain worse.

What is slipped disc (disc bulge)?

A slipped disc, also called a bulging, herniated or prolapsed disc, is when one of the soft cushions between the bones of the spine pushes out of place. Each disc has a tough outer ring and a soft, jelly-like centre. With age the discs lose water and become less flexible, so the centre can bulge or break through the ring. Lifting the wrong way or a fall can also cause it. If the disc presses on a nerve, pain, tingling or weakness can spread down the leg (sciatica) or, from the neck, down the arm. Many disc bulges cause no symptoms at all. Most painful ones get better over a few weeks to a few months without surgery.

Common signs

• Lower back pain with pain shooting down the buttock and leg.
• Neck pain with pain, tingling or numbness spreading down one arm.
• Pins and needles, numbness or weakness in a leg, foot, arm or hand.
• Pain that is worse when you bend, sit for long or cough.
• An MRI report that mentions a disc bulge, protrusion or herniation.

How Dr. Subhash approaches it

Treatment of disc bulges in the neck and lower back is on Dr. Subhash's own list of services. He finds out which disc and which nerve are involved by testing the strength, feeling and reflexes in your arms or legs, and with an MRI when it will change the plan. His list names treatment for disc bulges, not surgery: advice to stay active, pain relief, physiotherapy and, for severe nerve pain, a spinal epidural injection. He explains each option and what to expect.

What to expect

1. 01

   Consultation

   He asks how the pain started, where it spreads, and what makes it better or worse.

2. 02

   Examination

   He checks how your spine moves and tests the strength, feeling and reflexes in your arms or legs.

3. 03

   Scans if needed

   Many people need no scan. An MRI is used when a nerve seems pressed, weakness is present, or pain does not settle.

4. 04

   Treatment plan

   Staying active, regular pain relief and an exercise programme. Physiotherapy guides the exercises.

5. 05

   Injection if needed

   For severe leg or arm pain from a pressed nerve, he may discuss a spinal epidural steroid injection.

6. 06

   Review

   He checks your progress and changes the plan if the pain is not settling or weakness appears.

Getting better

Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.

• Most slipped discs improve slowly over a few weeks to a few months.
• Gentle activity such as walking or swimming helps you recover faster than bed rest.
• Taking pain relief regularly, as advised, makes it easier to keep moving.
• Lifting with bent knees, regular exercise and not smoking help protect the discs.

Risks to know about

• Long bed rest can make pain last longer, so short rests and gradual activity are advised instead.

When to book a visit

Where to book