Herniated Disc Treatment in Torrance & Long Beach | Dr. Remi Ajiboye

A herniated disc is one of the most common causes of neck and back pain, often leading to radiating symptoms into the arms or legs. Patients throughout Torrance, Long Beach, and Los Angeles County frequently seek evaluation from Dr. Remi Ajiboye at Minimally Invasive Spine & Orthopedics for persistent pain related to disc problems.

While many herniated discs improve without surgery, some cases require advanced treatment to relieve nerve compression and restore function.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that act as cushions and allow movement. Each disc contains:

• A soft inner core (nucleus pulposus)
• A tough outer ring (annulus fibrosus)

A herniated disc occurs when the outer ring weakens or tears, allowing the inner material to protrude outward. If this material presses on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, symptoms develop.

Herniated discs most commonly occur in:

• The lumbar spine (lower back)
• The cervical spine (neck)

Common Causes

Patients treated by Dr. Remi Ajiboye often develop herniated discs due to:

• Age-related degeneration
• Repetitive lifting or twisting
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting
• Sports or occupational injuries
• Excess body weight
• Smoking, which reduces disc nutrition

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Lumbar Herniation

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness in the leg or foot

Cervical Herniation

• Neck pain
• Arm pain or burning sensation
• Tingling in the fingers
• Weakness in the arm or hand

Urgent Symptoms

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Progressive weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

How a Herniated Disc Is Diagnosed

At Minimally Invasive Spine & Orthopedics, diagnosis includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Physical and neurological examination
• MRI imaging (gold standard)
• X-rays for alignment

Accurate diagnosis ensures the correct treatment plan.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Most patients improve without surgery.

Conservative Treatments

• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Activity modification
• Epidural steroid injections

Expected Recovery

Many patients improve within 6–12 weeks.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery may be recommended if:

• Pain persists despite treatment
• Weakness worsens
• Daily activities are significantly limited
• Imaging confirms nerve compression

The goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore function.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Options

Dr. Remi Ajiboye specializes in minimally invasive techniques:

Microdiscectomy

• Removes the portion of disc pressing on the nerve
• Small incision
• High success rate

Cervical Procedures

• ACDF
• Disc replacement

Recovery After Surgery

• Same-day or short hospital stay
• Early walking encouraged
• Rapid relief of leg or arm pain

Timeline

• Desk work: 1–2 weeks
• Light activity: 2–4 weeks
• Full recovery: 6–12 weeks

Why Choose Dr. Remi Ajiboye?

Patients choose Dr. Remi Ajiboye for:

• Expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery
• Personalized care
• Advanced techniques
• Focus on faster recovery

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc, early evaluation can help prevent worsening nerve damage.

Author

Remi Ajiboye MD Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is a spine specialist who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction.