Can you self-diagnose disc herniation?
A herniated disc can be very painful and debilitating. However, in many cases, people are able to self-diagnose.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to tell if you have a herniated disc and how to relieve pain.
Symptoms of herniated disc in the neck
If your neck is in pain, you are likely to have a herniated disc. The symptoms of this disease may vary depending on the location of the hernia. However, common symptoms include:
- Neck pain
- Pain emanates from the arm
- Stinging or numbness in the arms or hands
- Weaknesses of the arm or hand
How to know if you have a disc
In order to self-diagnose disc herniation, you need to know what to look for. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is best to see a doctor. However, if you are unsure and want to try to self-diagnose the condition, there are a few things you can do.
One way to determine if you have a disc is to do a simple test. Lying on your back, your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place one hand behind the head and gently tilt the head to the other side. If you experience pain in your neck while doing this, it may indicate a herniated disc.
Another way to check for a herniated disc is to check for muscle weakness. To do this, try pushing your toes down while placing your heel on the ground. If you can’t push it easily, or if you feel pain in your back, you may have a herniated disc.
Remember that no diagnosis is clear until the doctor confirms.
Tips for reducing neck pain in intervertebral disc science
If you have neck pain due to a herniated disc, you can do some relief. Here are some tips:
- Ice area – Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Tighten – Stretching can help relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility.
- Take medicine – Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and inflammation if necessary.
- Go to see a doctor – If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Seek help, turn Illinois Institute of Pain and Spine Studies for Neck pain relief in Chicago.
read How to diagnose disc herniation?