A herniated disc
is a rupture of the jelly like substance from inside one of the fibrous
discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae of the spine. Herniation
results in pressure on nearby nerves which can result in a variety of symptoms,
depending on the location of the affected disc. These include:
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Pain
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Numbness or weakness in the
neck, arm or hand, shoulder, buttock, legs or feet
Any disc can rupture, but it
is most likely to occur in the lower back as the result of disc degeneration
over a period of time or a sudden strenuous action.
Your physician may include
some of the following methods to treat a herniated disk:
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A period of greatly reduced
activity, possibly even bed rest. Activity can usually be resumed gradually.
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Heat and/or ice therapy
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Massage
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Gentle exercise
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Pain medications may be used
to reduce pain
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Epidural steroids
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Traction also may be helpful
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In many cases, pain will
be relieved by these conservative treatments. However, if the pain is recurrent,
or the conservative treatment does not help, surgery may be necessary.
If symptoms persist beyond
one month, or if leg numbness or weakness, or loss of bowel or bladder
control is present, you should contact your doctor immediately.
