Causes
Disc herniation occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc bulges through a tear or weakness in the outer layer. Common causes include aging, wear and tear, repetitive lifting or twisting movements, and sudden injuries.
Symptoms
Herniated lumbar discs may cause the following symptoms:
-
Pain in the lower back that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, or legs.
-
Nerve numbness or tingling: Along its path.
-
Muscle weakness: difficulty moving or controlling the legs or feet.
-
A pain that is exacerbated by certain activities: Bending, lifting, or sitting for a long time.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. These tests help identify the location and severity of the herniation as well as evaluate any nerve compression.
Treatment
There are several treatment options for lumbar disc herniation, including:
-
Avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms by resting.
-
Strengthening muscles and improving flexibility are the goals of physical therapy.
-
A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), muscle relaxant, or pain reliever may be prescribed.
-
Injections of epidural steroids reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
-
If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical procedures such as discectomy or laminectomy may be recommended.
Prevention
There are a number of strategies that can help reduce the risk of lumbar disc herniation, including:
-
When sitting or lifting heavy objects, maintain good posture.
-
Strengthening the core muscles and supporting the spine through regular exercise.
-
Smoking can weaken spinal discs and increase the risk of disc herniation.
-
Lifting properly: Lift with your legs rather than your back to minimize spinal strain.
Conclusion
In a spinal disc herniation, a tear or weakness in the outer layer causes the soft inner core to bulge out, causing lower back pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Symptoms include lower back pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies are used to diagnose it. In addition to conservative measures like rest and physical therapy, surgery is also an option. Maintaining good posture, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and lifting properly are all prevention strategies.
