Slipped or herniated disc happen in the spine from a tear in the outer ring causing the soft, center section of the disc to bulge. As a result of the tear, inflammation and pain may occur that can be treated with anti-inflammatories. Bulging, protruding and torn discs may receive the same treatment.
Normally, a protruding disc can lead to herniated discs.
Phrases such as prolapsed, ruptured or slipped disc may be used to describe this condition. Other phrases include protrusion, bulging disc, sciatia, pinched nerve, disc degeneration or disease, degenerative disc disease and black disc.
This condition can affect any disc but the lumbar and cervical discs are most commonly affected. Lumbar is more common of the two and results in pain in the lower back, leg pain, pain in the thighs, buttocks, foot or toes. Numb and tingle sensations are often felt throughout the legs and even into the feet. A slight burning sensation may also be felt in the hips and legs.
The thirties and forties is the time when most people are likely to suffer from herniated discs. The nucleus of the disc is still a soft substance that begins to dry during the out at later in life. When the nucleus dries out completely, the chances of this condition decrease significantly.
Cervical herniations happen in the neck. Indications can affect the back of the neck, skull, scapula, shoulder girdle, shoulder, hand and arm.
Herniations in the thoracic discs rarely occur because of stability. However, the symptoms are like those from neck and back herniations.
Everyday wear and tear from lifting or sitting can result in herniated discs. Traumatic injury to lumbar discs most often happens from improper lifting. Minor and chronic back pain or fatigue is a sign of normal wear and tear that makes it more likely that herniation will occur. A straight spine equalizes internal pressure. Lifting and sitting shifts that pressure.
Diagnosis of a herniated disc can be done by a doctor using the history, phyical exam and symptoms. Further testing may be needed to rule out other possibilities such as spondylolisthesis, tumors, degeneration, metastases and possible space-occupying lesions.
Procedures that may be used to rule out or confirm injury include x-ray, CAT scan, MRI, myelogram, and EMG/NCS.
Most injuries to the disc will heal within six weeks on their own.
If pain persists, anti-inflammatory treatment may be prescribed. They should not be used for long term treatment. Steroid injections into the back can also be an option because of the short term pain relief. Physical therapy may also be recommended in combination with other treatments.
Other treatment options are chiropractor visits, weight loss, massage therapy, physical therapy or bed rest.
Surgery should be a last resort treatment.
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