What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is commonly referred to as a ruptured disc, bulging disc or slipped disc.

Having a herniated disc is not uncommon and in fact many people will go through life exhibiting the symptoms of a herniated disc but only seek medical attention when the pain becomes intolerable often after a trauma has occurred.

Before we can define what a herniated disc is we must first understand what a disc is and its function.

The spine has bones (vertebrae) and discs (located between the vertebrae) are a mixture of fluid and cartilage that form a spongy cushion that acts somewhat like a shock absorber.

Pressure is constantly being applied to spine, even when sitting, and discs help to absorb that pressure and help insure the spine remains flexible.

Think for a moment the pressure your spine endures just in your everyday activities. Every step you take your feet are coming in contact with the ground resulting in pressure being applied. Now take it a step further and think how great the pressure is when running of lifting.

Herniated Disc

Over time discs may remain healthy and intact and one need not worry.

However, they may also become worn and prone to damage especially after a trauma to the area has occurred. When damage occurs, discs can leak and this is what is known as a herniated disc.

The pain felt is a result of the herniated disc pressing on a nerve root.

Symptoms of a herniated disc

Typical symptoms of a herniated disc include;

• Pain
• Numbness in the limbs (i.e. a herniated disc in the lumbar region may result in pain radiating to the buttocks or legs).
• Weakness
• Tingling

In the case of a herniated disc that is not pressing on a nerve root the symptoms may just include lower back pain, neck pain or no symptoms may be present at all.

Treatment options

There are many treatment options available for those who have been diagnosed with a herniated disc and it seems with the rapid advancement in technology that a new treatment becomes available much more frequently than say twenty years ago.

Some treatments prescribed are;

• Pain medications: these medications only give you relief and are NOT a "cure" and not recommended as a viable option long term.
• Anti-inflammatory: these medications reduce inflammation and this helps to decrease pain.
• Physical therapy
• Injections used to reduce inflammation and reduce pain
• Devices such as tens units and spinal cord stimulators
• Back surgery

These treatments may be used alone or combined depending on the course of treatment your physician deems necessary in your particular case.

Depending on the severity of pain and the extent of herniation your physician may choose surgery only after all other forms of treatment have been exhausted and the symptoms are still present.

Conclusion

Since patients have so many different treatments available there is really no need to suffer with the symptoms of a herniated disc.

If you feel you may have a herniated disc you should schedule an appointment with your physician as they are the ones who can properly ascertain if you have a herniated disc and what course of treatment best suits your situation.