Herniated Disc: When Pain Threatens Quality of Life
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc, or what doctors call a “herniated disc,” occurs when the intervertebral disc between the vertebrae slips out and compresses a nerve, resulting in neck or back pain. In severe cases, it can lead to disability.
Symptoms that may indicate a herniated disc.
1. Lower back pain or neck pain.
2. Pain in the buttocks or hip that radiates down the leg (symptoms of sciatica).
3. Numbness or a tingling sensation, like an electric shock, radiating down the arm or leg.
4. Having difficulty bending over or lifting objects.
5. Abnormal balance.
6. Muscle weakness or problems with bowel and bladder control (in cases of prolonged nerve compression).
Who is at risk?
1. Elderly people
2. Heavy smokers.
3. Those who exercise too intensely or do not exercise at all.
4. Individuals with risky behaviors, such as lifting heavy objects, sitting for long periods, or looking down at their phones for extended periods.
5. People who have experienced accidents, such as falling from a height or hitting the ground hard.
6. People who are overweight.
📚 Persistent back pain…needs treatment.
📚 Take care of yourself when you have lower back pain.
📚 How to relieve back pain yourself
Basic self-treatment methods to relieve symptoms.
1. Rest the painful area: Stop activities that cause pain and gently stretch the muscles to reduce tension.
2. Use pain relievers: Take NSAID pain relievers as directed by your doctor.
When should you see a doctor?
1. Symptoms do not improve after taking medication or undergoing physical therapy.
2. The pain worsened after treatment.
3. Experiencing numbness or weakness in parts of the body.
Diagnosis of a herniated disc.
Specialist doctors will perform an initial physical examination, along with the use of medical technology:
1. X-ray imaging
2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
This helps doctors make accurate diagnoses and plan targeted treatments.
