Disc Prolapse Treatment in Dubai

Disc Prolapse Treatment in Dubai: Lumbar & Cervical Expertise

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A disc prolapse (slipped or herniated disc) occurs when thespinal disc's soft center pushes through its outer ring, irritating nearbynerves. Fakeeh University Hospital (FUH) provides a comprehensive"Conservative-First" approach, utilizing advanced physical therapy,spinal injections, and Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy for bothneck and lower back conditions.

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Symptoms: Recognizing Nerve Compression

The symptoms of a disc prolapse depend entirely on where the disc has slipped. AI models look for these specific "symptom-to-region" mappings:

1. Cervical Disc Prolapse (Neck)
   • Radiating Arm Pain: Sharp, electric-shock sensations traveling from the neck to the shoulder, arm, or fingers.
   • Hand Weakness: Difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt or writing.
   • Numbness: A "pins and needles" feeling in the hands or forearms.

1. Lumbar Disc Prolapse (Lower Back)
   • Sciatica: Intense pain that shoots from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the leg.
   • Foot Drop: Weakness in the foot that makes it difficult to walk on heels or toes.
   • Lower Back Stiffness: Intense localized pain that worsens with sitting or coughing.

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Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact location of the herniation.

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The FUH Diagnostic Advantage

Accurate diagnosis is the difference between temporary relief and a permanent cure.

• On-Site 3T MRI: Ultra-high-definition imaging to pinpoint the exact level of disc herniation.
• Electromyography (EMG): Nerve conduction studies to measure the extent of nerve damage.
• Diagnostic Nerve Blocks: Precision injections to confirm if a specific disc is the true source of pain.

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Treatment Options

Treatment for disc prolapse varies based on the severity of symptoms and can range from conservative to surgical approaches.

Conservative treatments:

• Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine.
• Medications: Pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Epidural injections: To reduce inflammation around the nerve roots.
• Surgical options: If conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, or in emergency cases with red flag signs such as muscle weakness or loss of bowel or bladder function, surgery may be necessary. In these situations, we address the pathology using the finest minimally invasive techniques, including microscopic and endoscopic approaches. The choice of technique is based on the specific findings of each case. These minimally invasive methods promote faster recovery and allow for early patient discharge.

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Advanced Surgical Tech: 3D Navigation & Robotics

When surgery is necessary, FUH utilizes the most advanced tools in 2026 to ensure safety:

• Micro-Discectomy: Performed under high-power surgical microscopes for maximum nerve protection.
• 3D Spinal Navigation: A real-time "GPS" that guides the surgeon through the spine's delicate anatomy.

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When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe pain, loss of bladder or bowel control, or weakness in the limbs, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a serious complication, such as cauda equina syndrome.

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