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- What is Disc Herniation? Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis &...
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.
What is 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.
Importance of early diagnosis and management to avoid complications
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,
Prevention of further damage
The nerves surrounding the spine can be compressed by a herniated disc resulting in pain, numbness and even paralysis.
Better treatment outcomes
Early detection and management can help prevent surgical intervention. Physical therapy, medication, etc are examples of measures that may help resolve the issue or at least stop the underlying condition from getting worse.
Pain management
Early intervention can improve mobility aid in the effective management of pain and improve mental health by lowering the stress and anxiety brought on by chronic pain.
Preservation of function
Acting early can prevent long-term functional impairments like muscle weakness, loss of sensation, mobility problems etc.
Psychological well-being:
Social isolation, depression, and other secondary effects can result from problems like functional limitation and chronic pain. These secondary issues may be lessened if these problems are addressed early. What are the causes of Disc Herniation?
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 |
What are the symptoms of Disc Herniation?
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.
Cervical Spine (Neck)
Herniation disc in the cervical/upper spine can cause pain and numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and fingers.
Thoracic Spine (Mid-Back)
Herniation in the mid-back discs is uncommon but when they do occur they can cause chest and abdominal pain.
Lumbar Spine (Lower Back)
Disc herniation in the lower back is the most common. It may result in lower back pain, tingling and numbness in the legs, feet and toes. Lower back disc herniation presses on nerves making it difficult to stand, walk and do other activities.Diagnosing 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.
What are the Treatment for Disc Herniation?
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,
Physical Therapy
Stretching, massages, and other techniques are used to help relieve the strain on the muscles and nerves. Physical therapy helps increase circulation and flexibility.
Alternative Therapies
Therapies like chiropractic or acupuncture can be used to manage pain and release stress around the spine & surrounding muscles.
Medications
Prescribed medicines and muscle relaxants can help reduce pain and discomfort.
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining a correct posture, regularly exercising, and avoiding activities that add strain to the spine can help with treating the deformities.
Surgical Treatments
The necessity of surgery is determined by the severity of the symptoms. When non-surgical treatments are not enough to treat issues & relieve pain and other severe conditions, surgical procedures are the preferred course of action. Among the surgical techniques used to treat disc herniation are microdiscectomy laminectomy, artificial disc replacement, and spinal fusion surgery.Recovery and Rehabilitation
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.
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FAQs about Disc Herniation
What is disc herniation?
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.
Can disc herniation be cured?
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.
How to treat disc herniation?
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.
Why does disc bulge happen?
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.
Can herniated discs heal completely?
A herniated disc heals on its own, however, complete healing depends upon the severity of the symptom.
