Herniated Disk

A herniated disk is a common condition worldwide, and it’s one of the main causes leading to pain in the back, neck, and leg, yet most of the cases often heal on their own.

Herniated disk

A herniated disk occurs when one of the disks between the spinal vertebrae ruptures, and the inner part of it (gel-like substance) presses on the exterior (which is hard and rubbery), and that causes it to rupture and leak.

A bulging disc could occur in any part of the spine, but it occurs in the lower back and neck in most of the cases.

Causes and risk factors leading to herniated disk

• A herniated disk usually occurs due to aging, which makes the disc wear and tear normally. Some other causes include the following:
• Traumas and injuries.
• Wrong heavy lifting.
• Doing bending and twisting motions repetitively.

Some factors that increase the risk of a slipped disk:

• Smoking.
• Obesity and overweight.
• Frequently sitting in the same position for a long time.
• Diabetes.
• Not exercising.
• Genetics.
• A disorder in the connective tissues.

Symptoms of herniated disk

Herniated disk symptoms in the lower back:

• Pain in the lower back and leg.
• Tingling or numbness.
• Muscle weakness.

Herniated disk symptoms in the neck:

• Pain in the neck and the area between the shoulders.
• Pain in the shoulder and arm.
• Numbness and tingling in the arm.

Left untreated, a herniated disc could lead to worsening of the symptoms and sometimes, losing control and sensation in the affected area.

Diagnosis of herniated disk

• Physical examination.
• Neurological examination.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of herniated disk

• A herniated disk is usually left to heal on its own, and the patient is given painkillers.
• Physical therapy.
• Corticosteroid injections in the spine.
• In case none of the treatments were effective enough, the patient could have a spinal decompression surgery, which has several techniques, such as discectomy, spinal fusion, and others.

Prevention of herniated disk

• Follow the correct method for heavy lifting.
• Exercise regularly.
• Sit in healthy postures.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid smoking.