Treatment for a Herniated Disc
A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured or slipped disc, is a serious condition that can disrupt your entire life. Herniated discs cause pain as they irritate nearby nerves which may result in numbness, pain, and weakness in the arms or legs. However, some people may not experience symptoms from herniated discs or even know they have one. So, what are the symptoms and treatments for herniated discs?
What is a Herniated Disc?
To understand the symptoms and treatments of this condition, it is important to understand what it is. This condition refers to a problem with one of the rubbery cushions between the vertebrae, or individual bones, that make up the spine. These discs have a soft center and a tough exterior to protect the spinal cord from damage while cushioning the bones. But, when the discs are herniated, the softer center is pushed out through a tear in the tougher exterior, leaving the vertebrae without proper cushioning and the nerves vulnerable to damage.
Symptoms of Herniated Discs
While some herniated discs occur in the lower back, they can also occur in the neck. Some symptoms of herniated discs include arm or leg pain, numbness or tingling, and weakness. If the condition is in the lower back, a patient may feel intense pain in the buttocks, thigh, and calf. But if it is in the neck, intense pain may occur in the shoulders and arms. This discomfort can also move to the legs and arms when the person coughs, sneezes, or even moves in certain positions. The patient may also notice numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected muscles, causing them to stumble, drop items, or the inability to lift.
Treatments of Herniated Discs
There are many different treatments that can be used to help patients with this condition. Luckily, a combination of pain medication and planned exercises can relieve symptoms for most people. There is a range of medications that may help the condition including over-the-counter pain reliever, narcotics, anticonvulsants, muscle relaxers, and cortisone injections. Physical therapy, daily exercises, occipital nerve blockers, and alternative therapies could help relieve the pain.
Herniated discs can disrupt your life and cause extreme pain and numbness. If you are experiencing these symptoms, call Pain and Spine Specialists to help feel normal again.
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Pain and Spine Specialists treats many conditions and injuries of the back, neck, and spine by taking a whole-person approach to care. Our focus is getting you back on your feet in good health.
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