Herniated Disc – Could You Have It?

The spinal column consists of a series of bones that are stacked on each other. There are discs to cushion the bones and protect them from impact when performing activities such as lifting and twisting. The discs have two main parts; a tough ring on the outer part of the disc and a soft inner portion. If you sustain an injury, the inner part of the disc may protrude to the outer ring. If that happens, it is called a prolapsed or herniated disc. In a population of 1000 adults, five to twenty of them have a herniated disc at least once a year. Fortunately, there are lots of doctors that may help you treat a herniated disc in Ramsey. 

Symptoms of Herniated Disc

A herniated disc can be in any part of your spine. However, it mostly happens on your lower back. One of the biggest tell-tale signs of a herniated disc is experiencing pain that gets worse when performing activities such as: 

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Bending certain ways
• Pulling or pushing heavy objects
• Lifting heavy objects

Other common symptoms of the problem include;

• Sudden muscle weakness
• Pain in your legs or arms
• Numbness on one side of the body
• A burning sensation on the affected part
• Pain that increases after sitting or standing
• Aching or a tingling sensation on the affected area

The symptoms and severity of pain vary depending on the location of the herniated disc. If it is pressing on a nerve, you are likely to experience a lot of pain. It may cause general weakness and some numbness. A herniated disc that isn’t pressing on a nerve may cause low backache. In most cases, the first symptom of a herniated disc is low back pain. 

Lower back pain occurs when you have a herniated disc in that area. If you exert pressure on the nerves, you are likely to experience symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or burning pain from the buttocks to your feet. The sharp pain may get worse when sitting, standing, or walking.  

Cervical radiculopathy is a sign that your neck nerves have a compression. It may result in pain in your shoulder blades or neck. The pain may get worse with certain neck movements.

When to Visit Your Doctor

You should seek the help of a doctor if you have three or more symptoms of a herniated disc. There are various treatment options and your doctor will prescribe one that is most appropriate for your needs. They may prescribe pain-relieving drugs, nonsurgical options, or a physical therapy program. The aim of treatment is usually to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. 

If you have trouble controlling your bowel and bladder movements or experience pain and numbness on one side, you need urgent medical attention. The symptoms may result from underlying health conditions. 

Many people have a herniated disc at some point. Fortunately, there are lots of treatment options that may help you get rid of the problem. Choose an experienced doctor to help you.