A herniated disc is also referred to as a slipped disc.
This occurs when the outer part of the disc becomes weakened and the inner part is forced through this area of the disc, causing severe pain.
When this occurs, herniated discs place pressure on nearby nerves, including the spinal cord.
Symptoms Of Disk Herniation
With a slipped disc in the lower back, you may experience a sharp, piercing pain in one part of the leg, hip, or buttocks.
Numbness in other parts of the body may also become evident.
You may also experience pain after standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Pain may also occur simply when coughing or sneezing.
Causes Of Disc Herniation
Disc herniation is most often associated with old age.
As people age the spinal discs tend to lose fluid.
This weakens the disc which often results in disc herniation.
For others, disc herniation can be the result of incorrect lifting.
Using your back muscles instead of your leg and thigh muscles to lift heavy objects can lead to injury.
Genetics, weight and occupation also play their role.
While some may inherit a predisposition to developing a herniated disc, excess body weight and job description are also major contributing factors.
Diagnosis
Most herniated discs won’t resolve on their own and in some cases there may be no symptoms present…
A physical exam and a look into your family history are always the first steps in diagnosing a herniated disc.
You doctor may check your lower back, hips, hands, feet, neck, shoulders and arms.
Usually different physical and imaging tests will be done, including:
- Raising your shoulders
- Bending backwards and forwards
- Walking ability
- Ability to feel light touches
- Reflexes
- Muscle strength test
- Myelogram
- X-rays
- CT scan
- MRI
Sometimes doctors will also do a nerve test to help pinpoint the location of the nerve damage.
What To Do?
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment between patients will differ.
Instead of surgery, you should firstly opt for simple lifestyle changes.
Exercise
In order to prevent back pain, you need to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise as often as possible, but do not overdo it.
Avoid any heavy lifting and do not twist you back.
Exercise also ensures better oxygen delivery to all parts of the body, while also releasing endorphins.
Therapy
Not everyone diagnosed with disc herniation will need surgery.
As time goes on, doctors are embracing a more holistic approach to back pain.
Natural therapies will include:
- Electrical stimulation
- Hot and cold compression
- Physical therapy
Avoid too much bed rest and try to avoid activities which trigger your pain.
Make sure you manage your stress levels effectively and seek advice from a mental health counselor.
A herniated disc may only be prevented by avoiding injury to the spine.
For more tips on how to treat a herniated disk, please read Herniated Disk Relief At last.
