Herniated disc - symptoms, description and treatment
Revision
Do you feel that back pain has become an integral part of your life? Is it an uncomfortable back pain that shoots up into your legs or arms? In addition, there is tingling in the limbs and muscle weakness? These difficulties may indicate a prolapse of the intervertebral disc. [1]
Let’s look at how to recognize the symptoms of a herniated disc, find out its causes and treatment options. How to suppress symptoms such as pain, swelling and inflammation that are related to this disease? These insights can help you take back control of your health and comfort. Read more here.
Symptoms of a herniated disc
- Severe pain at the site of the prolapse
- Pain shoots into the limbs
- Tingling of the limbs
- Tingling
- Changes in limb sensitivity
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty walking
A herniated disc can occur in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. [2] A disc protrusion is usually very painful, but the specific discomfort varies depending on the size of the protrusion and where it occurred. [3]
Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis. Do not use this or any other article on the internet to make a diagnosis. Don’t put off seeing a doctor and address your condition early.
Description and causes of a herniated disc
Herniated disc – what is it?
The intervertebral disc is a flexible tissue that connects the vertebrae and allows the spine to move smoothly. The disc has a jelly-like nucleus that is encased in a tough ring. If the soft nucleus gets out of its “shell,” it irritates the surrounding nerves and causes pain. [5]
A herniated disc can cause pain in different parts of the body. It’s about where the prolapse occurred.
- A disc protrusion in the cervical spine causes severe pain in the neck.
In addition, the pain often shoots into the shoulders, arms and fingers. The pain may worsen with certain neck movements. [6] - A herniated disc in the lower back brings severe pain in the hips.
Other symptoms of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine are: pain in the buttocks, hips or thighs, muscle weakness and difficulty walking.[7] - In addition to pain directly at the thoracic spine, a herniated disc in the thoracic spine causes discomfort in the legs.
Patients feel tingling, tingling and a change in sensitivity in one or both lower limbs. [8]
Protruded disc - photogallery
Why does prolapse of the disc occur?
Disc protrusion is usually related to wear and tear of the spine. The main risk factors involved are:
- Older age.
With age, the discs lose their elasticity and resistance, which increases the risk of protrusion. - Overweight and obesity.
Excessive body weight increases the load on the spine and intervertebral discs, which can lead to wear and tear. - Long-term overloading of the spine at work or in sports.
Physically demanding work that involves heavy lifting, repetitive bending and turning or long periods of sitting can increase the pressure on the intervertebral discs. - Lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyle.
Weak and unused back and abdominal muscles cannot effectively support the spine, which can lead to greater stress on the intervertebral discs. - Genetics.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to weakened disc tissue, which increases the risk of herniation. [9]
How is the diagnosis of a herniated disc
The diagnosis of a herniated disc is made by a doctor based on a physical examination combined with various imaging methods. The neurologist assesses the type and intensity of pain, checks reflexes, muscle strength and quality of gait.
- Magnetic resonance imaging is a common way to confirm the diagnosis of a herniated disc and rule out other causes of the problem.
- The doctor may also recommend a CT scan (computed tomography) and an X-ray of the back.
- EMG (electromyography) is used for diagnosis – examination of the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. [10]
Did you know?
- Intervertebral disc herniation most often affects people between the ages of 30 and 50. [11]
- The most common problem is a bulging lumbar disc between 4. and 5th lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5).
- It is also common to have a herniated disc at L5-S1, i.e. between 5. lumbar and 1. the sacral vertebrae.[12]
Complications of non-treatment
If a herniated disc is not treated or the treatment is not effective, complications can occur with a significant impact on your life.
- Significant nerve damage can occur.
- It can lead to worsening pain and loss of sensation in the limbs.
- In the most severe cases, it can even adversely affect bladder and bowel function.
- That’s why prevention and spinal care is important. [13]
Nerve damage
Pain in the limbs
Loss of sensation in the limbs
Bladder problems
We recommend not to postpone treatment of a herniated disc
Do not delay treatment for a herniated disc and see a specialist if you have any health problems or doubts about your condition. This will prevent unnecessary health complications.
Treatment of herniated discs
How to treat a herniated disc?
In the treatment of herniated intervertebral discs, the following are used mainly conservative (non-surgical) methods. But if it doesn’t relieve the patient of pain and the difficulties worsen, surgery on the herniated disc may be the solution.[14]
However, in most patients (85%), the acute symptoms of a herniated disc in the cervical spine, thoracic spine or lumbar region disappear within 8 to 12 weeks. [15]
Conservative treatment of a herniated disc includes:
- Administration of painkillers and drugs to reduce muscle tension,
- special rehabilitation focused on the affected area,
- regime measures (adequate physical exertion, application of cold and warm compresses). [16]
Attention
Treatment for a herniated disc can only be determined by your doctor after considering your overall health. Therefore, do not use this article as a guide to treatment, which can only be determined by a doctor.
Rehabilitation of a herniated disc
It focuses on strengthening muscles and restoring spinal mobility. The goal is to minimize the risk of recurrent disc damage and reduce pain. It can last from a few weeks to several months.
It may include: physical therapy, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy and other treatment methods.
Rehabilitation after herniated disc surgery is an important process for regaining mobility and returning to the activities of normal life.
Herniated disc exercises
Exercise can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, increase mobility and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, which can help minimize the risk of further complications and improve quality of life.
It is also important to follow the doctor’s instructions and recommendations regarding exercise and overall treatment, as poorly performed exercise can worsen the condition and lead to complications. [17]
Herniated disc exercises:
- Stretching the muscles and spine: Helps relax muscles that may be twisting and putting pressure on nerve fibers.
- Abdominal and back muscle strengthening: helps maintain spinal stability and reduces pressure on the intervertebral discs.
- Aerobic exercise: helps maintain good blood circulation and improves overall body fitness.
- Swimming: Swimming is gentle on the joints and can help strengthen your back muscles.
- Physical therapy: a physical therapy specialist can suggest exercises and procedures that are specifically targeted to your needs and condition.
Herniated disc McKenzie exercises
It is an exercise method that was developed specifically for the treatment of back pain, including pain caused by a herniated disc. The exercises are aimed at strengthening and stretching the muscles of the spine and help improve spinal mobility.[18]
The most common McKenzie exercises include:
- Stretching the spine in the prone position:
Lie on your stomach with your arms next to your body. Place your palms on the floor under your shoulders and slowly raise your upper body so that you are resting on your palms. Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. - Stretching the spine in the prone position with support:
Lie on your stomach with your elbows tucked under your shoulders and your arms by your side. Slowly raise your upper body and lean on your elbows. Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. - Stretching the spine in the prone position with one side supported:
Lie on your stomach and place one arm under your shoulder on the other side of your body. Slowly lift your upper body and rotate towards the hand under your shoulder. Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then slowly return to the starting position.
McKenzie exercises should be performed under the supervision of a professional such as a physiotherapist or rehabilitation doctor. It is necessary to perform them correctly and in accordance with your state of health. In some cases, McKenzie exercises may be contraindicated, for example, in cases of severe neurological disorders or other health problems.
Herniated disc disability
A herniated disc can lead to disability. If symptoms are mild, your doctor may recommend staying home for a short time. In cases where the symptoms are severe and the patient is unable to perform their job, the incapacity to work may be prolonged. If the patient is operated on, the patient is usually given sick leave to allow them to recover from the operation.
Prevention of disc prolapse
- Maintaining correct posture when standing and sitting,
- lifting heavy objects from a squatting position, not just from a bending position,
- regular physical activity,
- adequate body weight. [19]
Important cautions when dealing with a herniated disc
Spinal wear and tear is a common cause of disc prolapse. How to prevent it?
Make sure your posture is correct, especially when sitting for long periods or doing heavy manual work. This will reduce the risk of irreversible changes to your spine. Properly chosen exercises bring relief from the pain of a prolapsed disc and protect the back from further damage to the spine.
Summary and recommendations for dealing with a herniated disc
See a doctor
The treatment of a herniated disc is always determined by a doctor based on a general examination, an assessment of your health and an accurate diagnosis.
Causal treatment of herniated disc
After a general examination, your doctor will recommend treatment for the cause of the herniated disc. They will also advise you on possible lifestyle adjustments and the next course of action.
Relieving pain, inflammation and promoting healing
Symptomatic treatment focuses on the manifestations or signs (symptoms) of the disease. Such treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and support comprehensive treatment during the course of the disease.
Sources, references and literature
[1] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[2] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[3] Herniated disc. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Herniated-Disc
[4] Herniated disc. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Herniated-Disc
[5] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[6] Herniated disc. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Herniated-Disc
[7] Herniated disc. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Herniated-Disc
[8] Herniated Thoracic Disc. University of Maryland Medical Center. Available at: https://www.umms.org/ummc/health-services/orthopedics/services/spine/patient-guides/herniated-thoracic-disc
[9] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[10] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[11] Dydyk A. M., Ngnitewe Massa R., Mesfin F. B. Disc Herniation. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; January 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/
[12] Dydyk A. M., Ngnitewe Massa R., Mesfin F. B. Disc Herniation. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; January 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/
[13] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[14] Herniated disc. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Herniated-Disc
[15] Dydyk A. M., Ngnitewe Massa R., Mesfin F. B. Disc Herniation. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; January 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/
[16] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
[17] Safe exercises for a herniated disc. Medical NewsToday , 27. January 2019. Available at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324311#summary
[18] The McKenzie Method,SpineOne, 7. November 2017. Available at https://spineone.com/mckenzie-method-back-pain
[19] Herniated disc. MayoClinic, 8. February 2022. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095?p=1
How to control pain, swelling and promote healing?
