Discover The Answers You Are Need Regarding Herniated Discs

By David Right

When a tear takes place in the outer ring allowing the soft tissue of a disc to bulge out, it is known as a herniated or slipped disc. Inflammation may result in the area as well as pain. Treatments for a herniated disc, tear, protrusion or bulge often consist of anti-inflammatory medication to alleviate pain and swelling.

A herniated disc normally begins as a protruding disc and then advances to the herniated stage.

Prolapsed, slipped disc, ruptured disc, protruding or bulging disc, black disc, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, disc disease, pinched nerve, sciatia, bulging disc and disc protrusion are all terms used to described a herniated disc.

In general, the neck and lower back region are more likely to have herniations. Of the two, the lower back is more susceptible. Signs of the condition are pain in the toes, foot, buttocks, thighs, back and legs. Tingling, numbness or burning feelings may be felt in the legs, feet and hip region as well.

The thirties and forties is the time when most people are likely to suffer from herniated discs. The nucleus of the disc is still a soft substance that begins to dry during the out at later in life. When the nucleus dries out completely, the chances of this condition decrease significantly.

Cervical herniations happen in the neck. Indications can affect the back of the neck, skull, scapula, shoulder girdle, shoulder, hand and arm.

Thoracic discs herniations are rare because of the stability in this area. The signs and symptoms often mimic cervical and lumbar herniations.

Having a job that requires prolonged sitting or lifting can cause this condition. Traumatic injury to the discs in the back is mostly caused by not lifting items correctly. Back fatigue or chronic pain is a sign of the normal wear and tear on the back that increases the likelihood of injuring a disc. Rounding of the spine causes an uneven distribution of pressure whereas a straight spine equalizes internal pressure.

Diagnosis of a herniated disc can be done by a doctor using the history, phyical exam and symptoms. Further testing may be needed to rule out other possibilities such as spondylolisthesis, tumors, degeneration, metastases and possible space-occupying lesions.

Testing may include CAT scan, x-ray, MRI, EMG/NCS and myelogram.

The average healing time for this condition, without surgery, is six weeks.

If pain persists, anti-inflammatory treatment may be prescribed. They should not be used for long term treatment. Steroid injections into the back can also be an option because of the short term pain relief. Physical therapy may also be recommended in combination with other treatments.

Other treatment options are chiropractor visits, weight loss, massage therapy, physical therapy or bed rest.

Surgery should be a last resort procedure. - 32188

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