Boise Herniated Disc Surgeon
UNPARALLELED SERVICE – EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS
Why Choose Dr. Kelly Bridges for Herniated Disc Surgery?
If you are in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, or considering traveling for expert spine care, Dr. Kelly Bridges is a trusted leader in spinal surgery. Patients choose her for:
✅ Unmatched Precision & Expertise – Extensive experience in spinal decompression procedures.
✅ Patient-First Philosophy – Surgery is only recommended when truly necessary.
✅ Minimally Disruptive Techniques – Uses precise, evidence-based methods to optimize recovery.
✅ Exceptional Post-Surgical Care – Dedicated support before, during, and after surgery.
Dr. Bridges is committed to restoring patient mobility, eliminating nerve pain, and improving quality of life.
Herniated Disc Surgery: Restoring Mobility and Relieving Nerve Pain
A herniated disc can be an incredibly painful and limiting condition, affecting your ability to walk, sit, and even sleep comfortably. When conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, and medications no longer provide relief, herniated disc surgery may be the best solution to restore function and eliminate nerve pain.
For individuals in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, and the greater Treasure Valley, Dr. Kelly Bridges offers advanced surgical options to treat herniated discs, helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life. Her expertise in precision-focused spinal procedures ensures that each patient receives the most effective, least invasive treatment necessary for long-term relief.
What is a Herniated Disc, and When is Surgery Needed?
The spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, absorbing shock and allowing flexibility in the spine. When a disc ruptures or bulges, it can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness—often radiating down the arms or legs.
Herniated discs can occur in both the cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back) and are often caused by:
- Aging & Disc Degeneration – Natural wear and tear weakens discs over time.
- Injury or Trauma – Sudden impact, accidents, or repetitive stress can cause disc damage.
- Poor Posture & Lifestyle Factors – Prolonged sitting, improper lifting, or obesity can increase strain on the spine.
While many herniated discs improve with non-surgical treatments, surgery may be recommended when:
✔ Pain persists for more than six weeks despite conservative care.
✔ Numbness, weakness, or loss of coordination affects daily activities.
✔ Symptoms worsen, impacting mobility or bladder/bowel function (a medical emergency).
Dr. Bridges carefully evaluates each patient’s condition to determine whether surgery is the best option for relief.
Common Questions About Herniated Disc Surgery
Surgical Options for a Herniated Disc
Herniated disc surgery is designed to relieve nerve compression, reduce pain, and restore spinal function. Depending on the severity, location, and overall spinal health, the following procedures may be recommended:
1. Discectomy (Disc Removal to Relieve Nerve Compression)
- The herniated portion of the disc pressing on the nerve is carefully removed.
- This relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, often providing immediate pain relief.
- The surrounding vertebrae are left intact, preserving normal movement and stability.
- This procedure is commonly performed on herniations in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine.
2. Discectomy with Spinal Fusion (For Cases Requiring Stability)
- If a damaged disc is severely degenerated or causing spinal instability, complete disc removal may be required.
- A bone graft or spacer is placed in the empty disc space to maintain proper spinal alignment.
- Screws, rods, or plates may be used to stabilize the spine and promote proper healing.
- Common in both lumbar and cervical spine surgeries when additional reinforcement is needed.
3. Multi-Level Fusion (For Severe Disc Disease or Instability)
- If multiple discs are herniated or spinal degeneration affects several levels, a more comprehensive fusion may be necessary.
- This provides long-term stability and prevents further degeneration in adjacent spinal segments.
Dr. Bridges will carefully evaluate which surgical approach is best suited to your condition, ensuring an effective treatment plan that focuses on long-term relief and preserving spinal function whenever possible.
Benefits of Herniated Disc Surgery
Many patients experience life-changing improvements following surgery for a herniated disc. The key benefits include:
✔ Significant Pain Relief – By removing pressure on the nerves, pain often subsides immediately after surgery.
✔ Improved Strength & Sensation – Many patients regain normal muscle strength and sensation over time.
✔ Faster Recovery Compared to Other Spinal Surgeries – Most patients are able to resume light activities within days to a couple of weeks.
✔ Long-Term Prevention of Nerve Damage – Surgery can prevent worsening symptoms and future complications.
✔ Restored Mobility & Quality of Life – Patients can return to normal daily activities without debilitating pain.
Who is a Good Candidate for Herniated Disc Surgery?
Surgery may be the right option for you if:
✔ Severe leg or arm pain limits your ability to function daily.
✔ You have persistent numbness or weakness that is not improving.
✔ Physical therapy, injections, and medications have not provided relief.
✔ Imaging studies (MRI or CT scan) confirm a disc herniation pressing on nerves.
✔ You are in good overall health and able to undergo surgery.
Dr. Bridges will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether surgery is the most appropriate path for your recovery.
Recovery from Herniated Disc Surgery: What to Expect
Recovery times depend on the procedure performed and individual healing factors, but most patients experience:
- Same-Day or Next-Day Discharge: Many herniated disc surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis.
- Early Mobility Encouraged: Walking and light movement begin soon after surgery.
- Activity Modifications: Avoid bending, heavy lifting, and twisting for several weeks.
- Return to Normal Activities: Many patients resume daily routines within a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Physical Therapy (If Needed): Some cases may require rehabilitation to regain full strength and mobility.
Dr. Bridges provides a personalized recovery plan to help each patient heal as efficiently as possible.
Don’t Let a Herniated Disc Control Your Life—Find Relief Today
If you’re struggling with persistent back or neck pain, nerve compression, or limited mobility, herniated disc surgery may be the key to getting your life back. Whether you’re in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, or considering traveling for expert spine care, Dr. Kelly Bridges can help.
📞 Call (208) 327-5600 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation today. Take the first step toward lasting relief and a pain-free future.