Can You Have a Herniated Disc on Both Sides?

Herniated discs are a common source of back pain and discomfort for many people. While most individuals experience herniation on one side of their spine, it is natural to wonder if you can have a herniated disc on both sides. The short answer is yes, it is possible to have bilateral herniated discs. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for this condition as well as its impact on your overall spinal health.

Herniated Disc Facts

First, it is essential to understand what a herniated disc is. The spine consists of vertebrae separated by cushion-like structures called intervertebral discs. These discs have a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a soft inner core (nucleus pulposus). A herniated disc occurs when the inner core pushes through a tear in the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.

Herniated Discs on Both Sides

While herniated discs commonly affect one side of the spine, it is indeed possible to have herniations on both sides simultaneously. This condition is known as bilateral disc herniation. It can occur at a single spinal level or at multiple levels of the spine. Bilateral herniations are less common than unilateral (one-sided) herniations and can cause more severe symptoms and complications.

Causes of Bilateral Herniated Discs

Several factors can contribute to the development of bilateral herniated discs:

• Age-related degeneration – As we age, our discs naturally lose water content and become less flexible, making them more prone to herniation.
• Trauma or injury – Sudden impacts or repetitive stress on the spine can cause disc damage on both sides.
• Genetic predisposition – Some individuals may be genetically more susceptible to disc problems.
• Occupational hazards – Jobs requiring heavy lifting or prolonged sitting can increase the risk of disc herniation.
• Lifestyle factors – Obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise can contribute to spinal issues.

Symptoms of Bilateral Disc Herniation

The symptoms of bilateral herniated discs can be more extensive and severe than those of unilateral herniations. Common symptoms include:

• Back pain – Persistent pain in the affected area of the spine, which may worsen with movement
• Sciatica – Pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates down both legs due to irritation of the sciatic nerve
• Muscle weakness – Weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerves
• Loss of reflexes – Diminished or absent reflexes in the legs
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction – In severe cases, bilateral herniations can affect nerve function controlling these organs.
• Saddle anesthesia – Numbness in the areas that would touch a saddle when riding a horse.

Diagnosing Bilateral Herniated Discs

Accurate diagnosis of bilateral herniated discs is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers typically use a combination of methods:

• Physical examination – Assessing pain levels, muscle strength, reflexes, and range of motion
• Medical history – Discussing symptoms, lifestyle factors, and any previous injuries
• Imaging tests
• X-rays – To rule out other spinal conditions
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) – Provides detailed images of the spinal discs and nerves
• CT scan – Offers cross-sectional views of the spine
• Electromyography (EMG) – Measures electrical activity in muscles to detect nerve compression

Treatment Options for Bilateral Disc Herniation 

Treatment for bilateral herniated discs aims to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further damage. Options include the following.

Conservative Treatments

• Rest and activity modification – Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain
• Physical therapy – Exercises to strengthen core muscles and increase flexibility
• Medications – Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants
• Hot and cold therapy – Alternating heat and ice to reduce pain and inflammation
• Epidural steroid injections – Corticosteroids injected into the space around the spinal cord to reduce inflammation

Surgical Interventions

In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be discussed and potentially recommended, such as:

• Microdiscectomy – Removal of the herniated portion of the disc through a small incision
• Laminectomy – Removal of part of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on nerves
• Artificial disc replacement – Replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one to maintain spinal mobility
• Spinal fusion – Joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and reduce pain

Living with Bilateral Herniated Discs

Managing bilateral herniated discs often requires lifestyle adjustments:

• Maintaining proper posture – Using ergonomic furniture and practicing good body mechanics
• Regular exercise – Engaging in low-impact activities like swimming or walking
• Weight management – Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine
• Stress reduction – Practicing relaxation techniques to minimize muscle tension
• Smoking cessation – Quitting smoking to improve overall spinal health

Prevention Strategies

While not all cases of bilateral herniated discs can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Regular exercise – Strengthening core muscles to support the spine
• Proper lifting techniques – Using your legs, not your back, when lifting heavy objects
• Maintaining a healthy weight – Reducing stress on your spinal discs
• Good posture – Avoiding prolonged periods of poor posture, especially when sitting
• Ergonomic workspace – Setting up your work area to minimize strain on your back

Bilateral herniated discs, while less common than unilateral herniations, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for managing this condition effectively. If you suspect you have a herniated disc on both sides, consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper care and lifestyle modifications, many people with bilateral herniated discs can find relief and maintain their spinal health.

Early intervention and a proactive approach to spinal health can make a significant difference in managing and preventing disc-related issues. By staying informed and taking steps to protect your spine, you can work toward a healthier, more comfortable future.

If you have one or more herniated discs that are not responding to conservative treatment, discectomy surgery may be discussed and potentially recommended. Discectomy recovery time varies among individuals and depends on factors such as whether the patient has a large hole in the outer ring of the disc after surgery. Although discectomy is generally a very successful procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us today.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.