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Between each vertebrae of you spine are discs made up of connective tissue that act like spongy cushions that allow for protection when your backbone twists and bends. As long as these discs are healthy, your spine remains flexible. But, if a disc becomes damaged it may bulge outward or possibly break. If the disc bulges outward, this may cause nerves to be pinched and create severe pain, muscle weakness as well as numbness and tingling in your legs or arms. A damaged disc is referred to as a herniated disc (ruptured disc). A herniated disc can occur anywhere along your spine but is most common in your neck and lower back. Your neck and lower back have a greater range of motion making them prone to disc injuries.
Disc Herniation Causes
Herniated discs have two major causes involving age and injury. Your discs will sustain daily wear and tear throughout your life. As you get older, they tend to lose moisture and dry out. Consequently, they lose flexibility. If you have an accident or other injury to your spine, this may cause a disc to bulge or rupture. If the disc ruptures, it will release fluid. This disc no longer has its cushioning properties and can cause bone to come in contact with bone causing bone damage and possibly spinal cord damage. A herniated disc is nothing to take lightly. Make sure to get to your healthcare provider immediately for assistance.
Disc Herniation Treatment
Treatments for disc herniation depend on where it is located and how severe the damage is to the disc. Once your doctor has diagnosed you, he/she will establish the proper treatment. If your disc problem is not too serious, you may just need some lifestyle changes and medication. Unlike other back pain problems, bed rest is a good idea. Again, exercise comes into play so don't be surprised if stretching exercises are assigned to you. Don't forget the old stand by of hot and cold packs, aspirin and possible chiropractic sessions.
If for some reason the above remedies are not working or can't be used, you may require surgery. There are different types of surgery so make sure you are well informed. Recently, newer techniques have been developed that are relatively noninvasive. The newer surgery is an outpatient procedure that makes use of laser technology. Instead of cutting your back open, a tiny opening is used to remove herniated disc debris. This procedure is known as "small endoscopic discectomy". If you have serious problems with your disc, you may want to do further research on this and discuss it with your doctor.
Whether your herniated disc is a mild or a severe problem, you have a number of options to rid yourself of pain. Initially bed rest is good. Exercise is the next item on the agenda as well as hot and cold compresses. Throw some aspirin in and possibly visit your favorite chiropractor. If this doesn't do the trick, you may need to consider surgery.
Make sure you do your homework:-
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- Find out the best surgical procedures and do check out the "small endoscopic discectomy" procedure. It is noninvasive and can be done in a few hours time. Definitely an outpatient procedure. Regardless of treatments, medical practitioners agree that in order to fully recover from a back injury or to gain long-term relief from back pain, you will need to commit your self to a certain degree of self-care.
Most people are not aware:-
- There are Back Pain Management courses available online that have been approved and endorsed by medical professionals. At http://scoliosisofthespine.org/ there is a detailed review of one of these courses from The Healthy Back Institute.There is also a Free Back Pain Management reference manual to help you start working for a healthier back Today.
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