We all have experienced it, at least once. Yes, we are talking about back pain. While some are caused by poor posture, others are the result of age, congenital conditions, or injuries. Disc herniation is a common problem that can cause back pain, among other issues. It happens when the disc that acts as a cushion between the spinal bones tears or leaks due to wear and tear or injury.
The spine is the main support structure of the body and is made up of a series of 24 bones called vertebrae. These bones are stacked on top of each other and separated by discs that work as cushions between the bones. These discs facilitate bending movement and other motions. However they begin to leak, lose their effectiveness or become dislocated due to desk herniation. Usually, this condition affects the lower back. Disc herniations are also known as bulging ruptured or slipped discs. The sheer number of people who experience these issues demonstrates how pervasive the problem is. A recent study found that over 75 per cent of elderly people and 20 per cent of young adults have a slipped disc or disc herniation.
It is a condition when the disc (a gel-like cushion) that separates the vertebrae becomes less effective, gets displaced or leaks out. A herniated disc can cause pain and numbness in the legs, neck or back. Old age, injury, and spinal strain are a few of the factors that may contribute to this problem. Slipped disc/herniated disc can be treated with proper rest, however, if the symptoms or pain persist over a few weeks consulting a specialist is advised.
The spine is an essential part of the human body. The spine is the main structural component of the body providing both structural support and nervous system protection. Any issues with the spine can impact mobility and flexibility as well as general health. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for reducing the serious effects and improving a patient's quality of life. Early action can help in many ways including,
A herniated disc is a condition when the cushion-like disc between the vertebrae begins to press against the surrounding nerve resulting in weakness, numbness and shooting pain. Any part of the body may experience pain depending on which nerve is being compressed or pushed. Hip and leg pain can result from a herniated disc in the lower spine whereas shoulder and arm pain can result from a herniated disc in the upper spine.
|
Causes |
Description |
| Age-related Degeneration | Loss of disk flexibility and hydration due to aging |
| Physical Strain/Trauma | Heavy lifting, improper posture, or injuries causing excessive pressure |
| Obesity | Excess body weight adds pressure on the spine |
| Poor Posture | Prolonged improper positioning increases strain on disks |
| Lack of Physical Activity | Weak back & core muscles fail to support the spine properly |
| Spinal Disorders | Conditions like scoliosis or lordosis alter pressure distribution on disks |
The symptoms of herniation disc can be noticed when it presses a nerve or spinal cord. The location of the pain varies depending on the area of the spine that is impacted; the pinched nerve can cause pain in different locations. While some people may have severe pain others may only have minor discomfort or undetectable symptoms. The following are typical signs of disc herniation.
A specialist can diagnose a disc herniation by performing a physical examination. This physical examination can assist in identifying the painful area as well as the surrounding muscle strength, sensation, reflexes etc. Additionally, certain imaging tests can be used to diagnose the precise cause including, CT Scan, MRI, X-ray, Myelogram, etc.
The treatment of disc herniation depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying symptom. Usually, a slipped disc can heal on its own with proper rest, pain-relieving medicines, and applying ice/heat to the affected area. While effective treatment of advanced-level herniated discs involves,
The degree of herniation and its stage determines how quickly a disc can heal, i.e. recovery can take weeks during an acute phase and months during a chronic phase. Age, the method of treatment, general health etc. are additional variables that impact the recovery. Treatment for herniated discs may include physical therapy, posture training, strengthening exercises and other essential rehabilitation components. The main objectives of rehabilitation include pain relief, motion restoration, spinal muscle strengthening, posture improvement etc.
Disk herniation is a condition when the disc (a gel-like cushion) that separates the vertebrae becomes less effective, gets displaced or leaks out. A herniated disc can cause pain and numbness in the legs, neck, arms, shoulders or back.
Yes, disc herniation can be cured, in the majority of cases herniated disc gets better on its own within weeks and with proper rest. At the same time, disc herniation with severe symptoms can be cured with physical therapy, medication & surgery.
A herniated disc can heal on its own with proper rest, pain-relieving medicines, and applying ice/heat to the affected area, though if the condition is more severe it can be treated with surgery & therapy.
Disc bulge happens when the disc (a gel-like cushion) that separates the vertebrae becomes less effective, gets displaced or leaks out and starts to compress/push the surrounding nerves.
A herniated disc heals on its own, however, complete healing depends upon the severity of the symptom.
