What is a Herniated Disc
Herniated disc is also called spinal disc herniation, is a condition which refers to a problem with a rubbery disk between the spinal bones. It is a very common condition with more than 3 million US cases per year. Treatable by a medical professional because is does require a medical diagnosis through lab tests and/or imaging. This condition occurs when the soft center of a spinal disk pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. Some herniated discs cause no symptoms. Others can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. Not every disc needs intervention. When needed, treatment includes medication, physical therapy, and possibly surgery. Consult a doctor for medical advice.
Symptoms
- Some herniated discs cause no symptoms
- Can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg
- Foot numbness
- Hand numbness
- Muscular: muscle weakness, muscle spasms, or overactive reflexes
- Pain areas: in the arm, back, foot, or leg
- Sensory: leg numbness, pins and needles, or uncomfortable tingling and burning
- Stiff neck
Treatment
- Not every disc needs intervention
- Chiropractic treatment techniques
- Emergency medicine doctor
- Epidural steroid injection
- Heating pad
- Neurologist,
- Neurosurgeon,
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
- Orthopedic surgeon,
- Physical exercise
- Physical therapist,
- Primary care provider (PCP)
- Spinal surgery
- Stretching and Physical therapy
Therapeutic ultrasound
