A herniated disc, also known as a herniated, herniated or ruptured disc, is one of the conditions that can cause pain anywhere in the spine, but is most common in the lower back and can also occur in the neck. An intervertebral disc is a portion of the spine that is described as round and flat, with a tough outer layer and covered with a jelly-like material. Each intervertebral disc sits between the vertebrae and acts as a shock absorber for the spine, especially when running or walking.
A ruptured disc often becomes displaced and due to the limited space within the spinal canal, it can compress spinal nerves, causing chronic to severe pain in the lower back or any area of the spine. Most cases of herniated disc do not require surgery and can resolve within a few months with appropriate treatment.
Our pain management doctors outline the important information you need to know about herniated discs, such as causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatment and prevention tips.
Causes of disc herniation
Herniated discs are often caused by the natural wear and tear on the spine associated with aging. This process is called disk degradation. As we age, the discs lose some moisture, making them less flexible and more susceptible to rupture and tearing, even from a minor twist or strain.
Other causes include falls or overuse of back muscles, especially when lifting heavy objects. Therefore, you must use your legs when lifting heavy objects.
Symptoms of herniated disc
One of the most common symptoms of a herniated disc is low back pain, which may last for several days. Other common signs and symptoms include:
- Pain in your arms or legs (sciatica). A herniated disc located in the lower back often causes severe pain that may begin in certain areas of the buttocks, thighs, calves, or even feet. A herniated disc located in the neck can cause severe pain in the shoulder and arm. You may feel a sharp sting when you sneeze, cough, or move into a certain position.
- Numbness or tingling. These types of sensations are usually felt in specific parts of the spine where the affected nerves are located.
- weakness. Affected nerves can cause weakness in the legs or feet, which can lead to the inability to lift or hold objects and even stumbling.
Risk factors for disc herniation
According to research, disc herniation can occur at any age, but studies show that it occurs more often in men between the ages of 20 and 50.
Factors that may increase your risk of disc herniation include:
- weight. Being overweight can put more stress on your lower back.
- Profession. People who have jobs with higher physical demands, including activities such as repetitive lifting, pushing, bending, or twisting, are at greater risk for back problems.
- Genetics. A person may inherit a tendency to develop a herniated disc.
- Improper lifting techniques. When lifting heavy objects, it is important to always apply force from the legs and not the back. Improper technique when lifting objects can cause a herniated disc.
- Drive a lot. Driving requires you to sit for long periods of time, and the vibrations from your car’s engine can damage your spinal discs and some spinal structures.
- Sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent diseases such as herniated discs.
- Smoking. Smoking reduces the supply of oxygen to the discs, causing tissue wear.
Herniated disc treatment
Treatments for herniated discs are mostly non-surgical and focus on eliminating pain. Treatment may include:
- rest. Your doctor may recommend you stay in bed for 2 days or less. Rest time will help relieve back and leg pain.
- Epidural steroid injection. This surgery is an X-ray guided injection of a cortisone-like substance into the affected area. This surgery relieves pain by reducing inflammation.
Your doctor may also recommend other treatments, such as heat and ice, muscle stimulation, or physical therapy.
Aventura and Hollywood Pain Management Clinic have a variety of pain management procedures that can help you eliminate the pain associated with a herniated disc. Our doctors can design a treatment plan that works best for you.
prevention tips
There are some methods that can really help prevent a herniated disc from occurring:
- Maintain optimal weight
- Perform daily exercises that provide spinal stability, such as sit-ups and other abdominal exercises.
- Lift heavy objects the right way – put the force in your legs, not your back
- Maintain good posture when sitting and standing. Doing this takes pressure off your spine and discs.
- quit smoking
If you are experiencing any pain, please feel free to contact our pain management doctors. With extensive experience in treating a variety of pain-causing conditions, we can help you return to your normal life and daily activities.
Dr. Luis Escobar Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology, American Board of Pain Medicine, and American Pain Management Society. He has practiced law in the area for more than fifteen years. He has lectured in the community and popular media on a variety of topics in pain management.
Our pain management clinics in South Florida offer patients more options than their primary care physicians when it comes to comprehensive interventional pain management. Our pain management physicians perform procedures (such as nerve blocks, spinal injections, and other interventional techniques).
Among the many conditions treated at our Hollywood and Aventura pain clinics is herniated disc, a condition that causes low back and/or leg pain. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with a top pain doctor, contact us today and we will be happy to assist you.
The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice and does not substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider
