Would you like to continue or select additional body parts?
- Home
- Conditions
Herniated Disc: Treatment, Symptoms and causes
-
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc is a very common back injury and cause of back pain, and can affect any part of the spine, from the neck (cervical), to the mid back (thoracic), to the lower back (lumbar). Discs act as cushions and spacers between each vertebrae to keep them from rubbing together and to give the spine flexibility and mobility. Discs have a tough, fibrous outer ring, and a gel-like, elastic core. A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus pushes through the outer ring, creating a bulge that can press against nearby nerves.
-
Herniated Disc Symptoms
Depending on the location of the disc in the spine and the severity of the rupture, symptoms can vary. While some herniated discs cause no pain and you may not even be aware of the injury, when symptoms are present, they can include severe pain, numbness or tingling, and weakness. When the herniated disc is in the lumbar region, symptoms can occur in the buttocks, legs, and feet. When the injury is in the cervical region, symptoms can spread to the shoulders, arms, and hands.
-
Herniated Disc Causes
Herniated discs commonly result from age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs, known as disc degeneration. A herniated disc can also result from an injury, or improper lifting of a heavy object.
-
Herniated Disc Treatment Options
Treatment options for a herniated disc also depend on the location of the disc and the severity. A herniated disc can be treated with various non-surgical pain management techniques. If you’re experiencing additional or continuing symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery, which can include minimally invasive procedures like a laminectomy, discectomy, and various spinal fusion procedures.