What is a Herniated Disc?
The bones in the spinal column called vertebrae surround the spinal cord and other nerves and are cushioned by soft intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers for the spine. The intervertebral discs are composed of a jelly-like nucleus pulposus at the center, surrounded by a fibrous ring called the annulus fibrosus. A herniated disc is a condition in which the outer fibrous annulus of the intervertebral disc is damaged, causing the nucleus to protrude through the ruptured annulus and compress the adjacent nerve root and/or spinal canal. A herniated disc is also known as a slipped disc or a ruptured disc. Wear and tear due to aging, repetitive strenuous movements, smoking, improper lifting, and being overweight may alter the structure and function of these discs.
What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
The predominant symptom of a herniated disc is pain, which can range from mild to severe and is usually aggravated by movement. The most common signs and symptoms of a herniated disc are as follows:
- Herniated disc in the lower back causes back pain that radiates to the buttocks and legs.
- Herniated disc in the neck causes neck pain that radiates to the shoulders and upper arms.
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Muscle weakness
- Occasionally, bowel and bladder dysfunction
How is a Herniated Disc Diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan are important for a successful outcome. Your doctor will usually diagnose a herniated disc based on your history of symptoms along with a physical examination, where your sensations, reflexes, and the strength of the muscles are evaluated. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans, or electromyography (measures nerve signals to muscles) may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis of a herniated disc.
What are the Treatment Options?
Treatment comprises conservative and surgical options. Conservative treatment may include rest, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, muscle relaxants, cold or hot compresses, activity and posture modifications, physical therapy, spinal injections, electrical stimulation, traction, or braces. Your doctor may recommend a combination of two or more treatment modalities to enhance the potential of success of the treatment.
Surgery is not always indicated for herniated discs. It is considered if you have an unstable spine, neurological dysfunction, or persistent pain that does not respond to conservative treatment. Minimally invasive spine surgery may be performed to remove the protruding portion of the disc. In rare cases, the entire disc is removed, and the adjacent vertebrae are fused or an artificial disc is inserted.
Your surgeon will discuss the surgical options and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
