If you have herniated discs, you may be wondering what they are. Herniated discs are cushions-like pads located between the vertebrae. They can become weakened or herniated, pushing on nerve roots coming from the spinal cord. To learn more about herniated discs, read on. The following article discusses some of the common symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Get to know more information, take appointment with top Spine Surgeon in india.
Symptoms
Herniated discs are painful problems with the intervertebral discs that sit between the vertebrae of the spinal column. These discs are made up of a spongy, jelly-like inner core and a tough outer casing. When this inner layer breaks through the outer casing, the bulging portion of the disc presses against the spinal cord and compresses nearby nerve roots, causing pain. Herniated discs are a common complication of age-related degeneration and traumatic accidents.
Oftentimes, herniated discs are caused by trauma to the spine or back. These herniated discs can cause severe pain in the lower back or even the arms and legs. A herniated disc in the neck or buttocks can also cause loss of bladder and bowel control, though this is uncommon. This condition is referred to as cauda equina syndrome.
Causes
While age-related wear and tear is the most common cause of herniated discs, other factors can also result in a herniated disc. Specifically, lifting heavy objects, a sedentary lifestyle, and a traumatic event can lead to the disc to degenerate and rupture. People who are overweight are at an increased risk of developing herniated discs.
Discs in the spine function as shock absorbers. The soft gel interior is surrounded by a tough, outer shell. As people age, the discs begin to lose their water content, leading to a weakened core. Although age-related disc degeneration is considered the primary cause of herniated discs, other factors can also contribute. This article will examine the various factors that contribute to the development of herniated discs.
Treatment options
A herniated disc is a common spinal condition that can occur in any age. Herniated discs typically occur in the lower back, or lumbar spine, between the bottom of the ribs and hips. Discs are made up of a gel-like center and a fibrous outer ring. They act as shock absorbers, distributing weight-bearing forces throughout the spine. If a disc becomes swollen and hernated, the inner ring can bulge out into the space, irritating and compressing nerves. Treatment options for herniated discs depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s health history.
The pain caused by a herniated disc is usually sharp and piercing, but can radiate to other parts of the body. If the disc presses a spinal nerve, the pain may also radiate to other parts of the body. A herniated disc can be very painful, causing a wide range of symptoms, from mild back pain to extreme numbness. Some people experience pain in the leg area after the disc ruptures.
Complications
Herniated discs are a common condition, with many different causes. These include repetitive pressure from heavy lifting, obesity, smoking, and low physical activity. Medical treatment for disc herniation is typically conservative, using over-the-counter medications and home exercises. While some patients benefit from surgery, the risks of this procedure may include neurological deficits and residual pain. Physical therapy is vital for most patients, and can be an integral part of treatment for herniated discs.
Standard X-rays are not always enough to diagnose herniated discs. However, they can help your doctor rule out other causes of your back pain. A myelogram, which involves injecting dye into spinal fluid and taking an X-ray, can help determine where the disc is pressing on the spinal cord. A CT scan, meanwhile, combines several X-rays to create detailed images of the spinal cord.
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