Pain that radiates down your arm or leg can make even simple activities difficult. While many people assume it comes from a muscle or joint problem, the true cause often lies in the spine. A herniated disc — when a spinal disc bulges or ruptures and presses on nearby nerves — can lead to nerve irritation that causes pain, tingling, or weakness in the limbs.Â
Dr. Todd J. Albert, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in New York City, specializes in diagnosing and treating herniated discs to restore comfort and function.
What Happens When a Disc Herniates?
Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility and shock absorption. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a soft inner core. When the outer layer weakens or tears, the inner material can push outward and press against a spinal nerve root. Depending on where the herniation occurs, this compression can cause cervical (neck) symptoms that radiate into the arms or lumbar (lower-back) symptoms that travel down the legs—a condition often referred to as radiculopathy or sciatica.
Why the Pain Radiates
Spinal nerves branch out from the spinal cord and travel through the body, carrying motor and sensory signals. When a herniated disc compresses one of these nerves, pain often follows the nerve’s path. For example, a herniated cervical disc may cause burning or tingling from the neck into the shoulder and hand, while a lumbar disc herniation can cause shooting pain or numbness from the lower back into the buttock, thigh, or foot.
When to See a Spine Specialist
While mild back or neck pain sometimes improves with rest and conservative care, certain symptoms require prompt evaluation. You should schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent pain that radiates into an arm or leg
- Numbness or weakness that affects movement or grip strength
- Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- Loss of coordination or difficulty walking
- Changes in bowel or bladder control (a medical emergency)
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Albert uses advanced imaging and detailed neurological exams to pinpoint the source of nerve compression. When possible, he recommends non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted injections. If symptoms persist, he offers surgical options — including minimally invasive procedures — to remove the herniated disc material and relieve nerve pressure.
If you’re experiencing radiating arm or leg pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact Dr. Todd J. Albert’s office at 212-606-1004 to schedule your consultation in New York City and learn how expert spine care can help you find lasting relief.
