Disc Herniations: What You Should Know
Disc Herniations
are also referred to as slipped or ruptured discs. The flexibility and mobility of the spine are due to the presence of cushion-like pads in between the vertebrae of the spine. The disc consists of a tough and resilient outer layer that is Annulus and a soft inner portion that is Nucleus Pulposus. If the Annulus of the disc ruptures, the inner soft portion, which is the nucleus pulposus displaces or leaks into the spinal canal in which the spinal cord and the spinal fluid lodges, causing Disc Herniation. Consequently, nerve compression is followed by the administration of severe and radiating pain in either the lower back or neck.
What are the Causes of Disc Herniation?
There are several causes of Disc herniation varying from person to person. However, the most common ones are stated below:
Wear and tear or degeneration of the spine due to aging
Continuous strain on the spine
Inappropriate body posture while lifting heavy objects
Involvement in physically demanding activities on a daily basis that comprise pushing or pulling
Sudden injury to spine caused by an accident
Signs and Symptoms of Disc Herniation
Disc herniation can occur at any age for both men and women but the most frequent age groups in which Disc Herniation can occur are between 20 to 50 years of age. The signs and symptoms of a herniated disc are the same in every person irrespective of age and gender:
Pain or numbness radiating from buttocks to legs
Lower back pain
Severe pain in legs during the night
Intense pain in neck radiating towards arms and hands
Pain in legs while walking
Excruciating pain on one side of the body
Muscle weakness
How to manage a herniated disc?
Most of the time, a herniated disc can be treated without surgery through lifestyle changes. Muscle relaxant or anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen is recommended by doctors to manage the pain. There is no need for bed rest. However, limited physical activity is suggested for 2 to 3 days to lessen the intensity of pain. Doctors may recommend physiotherapy sessions on a regular basis depending upon the severity of the herniated disc. If the pain is unbearable, an epidural steroid injection is injected at the site of disc herniation for instant and effective relief from pain. If the intensity of the pain does not decrease or the pain remains unmanageable by the above-mentioned treatments, then surgery is recommended by doctors.
The Takeaway Message Lifestyle changes and precautions are crucial to manage and lower the intensity of pain caused by a herniated disc. A visit to the doctor is recommended for a thorough checkup if the pain worsens with time because you may have to undergo surgery if the treatment does not work.
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