Typical symptoms
- Sharp pain radiating to one leg (sciatica) or arm
- Pain worsens with coughing, sitting, leaning forward
- Localised lower back or neck stiffness
- Pins and needles or numbness in a precise nerve territory
SPINE CONDITION
Herniated disc
That electric pain shooting down your leg or arm, the kind that turns a simple cough into a jolt, often comes from a herniated disc. It happens when the gel-like core of a spinal disc pushes through its outer ring and presses on a nerve root — the source of the radiating sciatica or brachialgia. The reassuring part: with the right care, most people recover fully.
Recognising the symptoms
Symptoms depend on the level (lumbar, cervical) and the size of the herniation. Most flare-ups resolve within 6 weeks; persistent or progressive symptoms require imaging.
When to consult
- Radiating pain that persists beyond 4 to 6 weeks
- Failure of NSAIDs, physiotherapy and rest
- Disabling pain at night or interfering with work
- Recurrent episodes (more than two per year)
Red flags — emergency
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Saddle anaesthesia (perineal numbness)
- Rapidly progressing leg weakness (foot drop)
- Severe pain after recent trauma
Causes and diagnosis
Discs degenerate naturally with age. Repetitive loading, sedentary posture, heavy lifting and a genetic predisposition all accelerate the process. A single forceful movement can then tear the annulus and let the nucleus push out.
Most herniations are confirmed on MRI. The clinical exam (Lasègue, dermatomal weakness, reflex changes) determines whether the imaging finding matches the symptoms — a critical step before considering surgery.
Diagnostic process
- Detailed clinical interview and neurological examination
- Spine MRI (gold standard) — second opinion if needed
- Standing X-rays to rule out instability or scoliosis
- EMG when a nerve deficit is suspected
- Multidisciplinary review: neurosurgeon + physiotherapist + pain specialist
Treatments we offer
We always start with the least invasive option that delivers durable relief. Surgery is reserved for cases where conservative care has failed or red flags are present.
Stage 1
Conservative care (6 weeks)
Targeted physiotherapy, postural rehab, NSAIDs and, if needed, epidural infiltration under imaging guidance. 80 % of herniations improve at this stage.
Stage 2
Mini-invasive surgery
Endoscopic or microscopic discectomy through a small incision. Outpatient procedure in most cases — return to office work within 2 to 3 weeks.
Stage 3
Disc arthroplasty / fusion
When the disc is severely degenerated or unstable, total disc replacement or single-level fusion restores stability while preserving as much motion as possible.
Surgical technology
Why choose Franchir
Treated in 4 to 8 weeks
Dedicated international slots reserved with our French partner surgeons — no 12 to 18 month waiting list.
3D navigation & robotics
Minimally invasive procedures, intra-operative imaging and the latest implants — often unavailable locally.
Fully bilingual pathway
Coordination from Montréal to France in French and English, with your home physician kept in the loop.
Transparent quote
Detailed pricing before any procedure, insurance support and no hidden fees.
Your journey, step by step
Step 1
Initial review
45-minute appointment with our clinical nurse specialist to review imaging, symptoms and history.
Step 2
Specialist file — 48 h
Your case is shared with the most relevant French spine surgeon. Treatment plan delivered within 48 hours.
Step 3
Travel & surgery
Concierge organises stay, transport and admission. Surgery takes place in a partner centre of excellence.
Step 4
Coordinated follow-up
Post-op recovery in Québec with shared follow-up between Franchir's team and your home physician.
Patient story
L5-S1 disc replacement: Benoît, a Quebec patient, on his new pain-free life
Benoît, a Quebec patient who received an L5-S1 disc replacement, shares his journey with Franchir and his new pain-free life.
Procedures & explainers
Live from the OR — Nerve release, anatomical integrity, mobility preservation: 3 surgeons
L5-S1 disc replacement: a tailored care pathway to restore your mobility
Anterior spine approach: preserving the muscles to restore mobility
Frequently asked questions
Most herniated discs settle within 6 to 12 weeks with physiotherapy and tailored medication. Surgery is considered when pain remains disabling after 6 weeks, when a neurological deficit appears, or in case of cauda equina symptoms.
Check your eligibility
Send us your imaging and medical history. A specialist reviews your file and confirms whether surgery is the right option — for free.