Dr. Derek Snook
Neck & Spine
Herniated Disc: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
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Are you experiencing chronic and radiating back pain? You may be suffering from a herniated disc. Herniated discs occur when the soft, inner material of the spinal column pushes through the weakened outer layer of the disc. This creates pressure on nearby nerves and results in pain.
In this article, we’ll discuss herniated discs, providing essential information for those who may be facing this condition. Whether you’re looking to understand the causes, symptoms, or treatment options, we’ve got you covered. If you would like to speak with an expert spine specialist, contact JIS Orthopedics. We are treating many spine conditions in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio.
What is a Herniated Disc?
Your spinal column has many vertebrae that make up your spine. In between the bones are vertebral discs. A herniated disc (also known as a protruding, bulging, or ruptured disc) is a condition that occurs when the soft jelly-like nucleus pushes against its outer ring.
This can result in pressure on the nearby spinal nerves or spinal cord. The pressure can cause spinal nerve inflammation and swelling which leads to a range of symptoms, including leg pain.
Although herniated discs can occur in any of the spinal segments, the most common area is the lumbar spine. A herniated lumbar disc may cause lower back pain.
Causes of Herniated Discs
Herniated discs are often a consequence of natural, age-related wear and tear on the spine, a process known as disc degeneration.
In children and young adults, spinal discs contain a high water content, making them flexible. However, as people age, the water content decreases, causing the discs to become less flexible and more prone to herniation.
Additionally, traumatic events like falls can also lead to a herniated disc.
Herniated Disc Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a herniated disc. They include the following:
- Gender: Men between the ages of 20 and 50 are more susceptible to herniated discs.
- Improper Lifting: Using your back muscles instead of your legs to lift heavy objects can increase the risk of a herniated disc. Remember to lift with your legs and not your back.
- Weight: Being overweight adds extra stress to the lower back, making it more vulnerable to herniation.
- Repetitive Strain: Jobs that involve constant lifting, pulling, bending, or twisting can strain the spine. Learning safe lifting and movement techniques can help protect your back.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Regular exercise is essential for preventing many medical conditions, including herniated discs.
- Smoking: Smoking may decrease the oxygen supply to spinal discs, leading to more rapid degeneration.
Recognizing Herniated Disc Symptoms
The initial symptom of a herniated disc is often sharp pain in the lower back, which may improve after a few days. However, other symptoms may include:
- Sciatica: A sharp, shooting pain that travels from the buttock down the back of one leg due to pressure on the spinal nerve.
- Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the leg and/or foot.
- Leg Weakness: Weakness in the leg and/or foot.
- Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: A rare but serious symptom known as cauda equina syndrome, indicating compressed spinal nerve roots.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to consult a doctor promptly. A timely medical evaluation can lead to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Diagnosing a Herniated Disc
To diagnose a herniated disc, your doctor will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:
- Neurological Examination: This helps assess muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes.
- Straight Leg Raise (SLR) Test: A specialized test that can indicate the presence of a herniated disc, especially in younger patients.
- Some herniations will worsen with a femoral stretch test
- Imaging Tests: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are often used to visualize where the pressure is on the spinal canal and confirm the diagnosis.
Herniated Disc Treatment
Treatment for a herniated disc typically starts with non-surgical approaches, which may include:
- Rest: A short period of bed rest, usually one to two days, can help alleviate back and leg pain.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Pain medication like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted physical therapy exercises can strengthen lower back and abdominal muscles.
- Epidural Steroid Injection: This can provide short-term pain relief by reducing inflammation.
In many cases, herniated discs naturally heal over time, with symptoms gradually improving.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is usually reserved for cases where nonsurgical treatments have not helped relieve symptoms or when certain severe symptoms are present, such as muscle weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Common surgical procedures include microdiscectomy and laminectomy.
Preventing Herniated Discs
While it’s not always possible to prevent herniated discs entirely, you can reduce your risk by:
- Using proper lifting techniques
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Practicing good posture
- Regularly stretching
- Avoiding high-heeled shoes
- Exercising to strengthen back and abdominal muscles
- Quitting smoking
Remember, a herniated disc is a treatable condition, and early intervention can lead to a smoother recovery.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you suspect you have a herniated disc or are experiencing related symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Contact JIS Orthopedics for expert spine treatment in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Your journey toward relief and recovery begins with a consultation. Book an appointment today!
Medically reviewed by Derek Snook, MD
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