The Top Causes of a Herniated Disc Discussed.
Have you been told you have a herniated disc? You may need the services of an orthopedic doctor. Back, neck, and leg pain can occur for various reasons. It may be caused by an accident or injury. However, a herniated disc is the leading cause of neck and/or arm and back, and/or leg pain. In this article, we will explore the causes of a herniated disc.
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What Causes a Herniated Disc?
A disc is a rubbery cushion with a soft center. The soft center is known as the nucleus. The tough, rubbery exterior is called the annulus. It is located between the bones in your spine.  A herniated disc occurs when a part of the soft center pushes out through a tear. The following lifestyle factors make people more prone to a herniated disc. For example, sitting for long periods, obesity, smoking, genetics, or repetitive bending or lifting. Oftentimes, people are not able to identify the event.
Wear and tear on the spine
Our backs help distribute our weight. Discs help us move well while walking, twisting, or bending. Over time our discs get worn out. As a result, they will weaken. This allows the nucleus to push through and cause a herniated disc. This can be an age-related problem and more prone to tearing over time.
Injury
A herniated disc can also be caused by accident. For instance, a sudden jerking movement in a car. Twisting while lifting a heavy object is also another common cause of a herniated disc. Something as simple as a sneeze can herniate the disc if you have a seriously degenerated spine. Also, repetitive lifting of large, heavy objects can cause a herniated disc.
Degenerative spine
As you age, ligaments become loose and easier to stretch. This makes injury to the disc more likely. Also, the percentage of water in the disc decreases, making the disc more prone to rupture. Many older people develop scoliosis, a spine curvature that can put additional pressure on the discs. Herniated discs are more common in men than women.
Herniated Disc Causes
After reviewing some causes of a herniated disc, let’s look at the complications and treatments. The spine has seven cervical (neck) vertebrae, twelve thoracic (chest) vertebrae, and five lumbar (lower back) vertebrae. The symptoms of a herniated disc depend on the location of the disc. Most injuries occur in the lumbar spine. If you think you have a herniated disc, you should seek medical attention sooner rather than later to avoid long-term or permanent injury.
Symptoms and Complications
Complications of a ruptured disc in the lumbar region
A ruptured disc can cause permanent nerve damage if it is untreated. This could result in numbness or muscle weakness. With lumbar nerve injuries, you could develop foot drop or have bowel or bladder control difficulty. Foot drop can cause mobility issues and put you at a greater risk of falling. You should seek immediate medical attention if you have extreme leg weakness or difficulty with bladder or bowel function.
Complications of a ruptured disc in the cervical region
Your cervical spine supports your head, which weighs nine to twelve pounds. It also allows you to swivel your head 180 degrees. This can take a toll on these vertebrae and their discs. A cervical ruptured disc can cause pain above your collarbone, entire arm, and shoulder blade. It can also cause weakness in your arm muscles or numbness. A cervical ruptured disc can make it difficult to rotate your forearm or make it difficult to use your fingers.
Preventing Herniated Discs
It may not be entirely possible to prevent a herniated disc. Because most herniated discs are the result of degenerative changes. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include using sound body mechanics when lifting. You should also use the big muscles in your legs, bending your knees, not your waist, when lifting a heavy object. You should eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight. It is important not to be too sedentary or stay seated for long periods. To help you, set a timer, and walk around and stretch. Another way to help prevent herniated discs is to develop an exercise routine that strengthens your core and the muscles in your back and legs.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Herniated Discs
When you go to the doctor with spine pain, they will perform a physical exam. The exam will include checking for muscle strength, nerve function, and pain when moving the affected areas. The doctor may order tests, including x-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and possibly a discogram. From the physical exam and tests, the doctor will diagnose the problem.
Most herniated discs can be treated with conservative care. The doctor will likely refer you to physical therapy, where they will design an individualized exercise program. This will include stretches and muscle-strengthening exercises. The goal is to reduce your pain. You may also be prescribed over-the-counter pain medications and alternating heat and ice. You should avoid activities that increase pain, but light to moderate physical activity usually decreases pain. With conservative care, the pain gradually lessens over about six weeks. Your doctor may suggest surgery in your pain or weakness worsens with conservative treatment.
Wrapping Up
Finally, herniated discs can put a serious damper on your life. Remember to use good body mechanics to reduce the chances of a herniated disc. Exercise regularly to increase your core strength. Remember to avoid twisting and turning while lifting. If you tweak your back, use over-the-counter medications and ice alternating with heat. See your doctor if symptoms don’t resolve within a few days. Expect your doctor to prescribe physical therapy. Hopefully, you will be among the lucky majority with a herniated disc that resolves with conservative treatment.
About the Author:Â Katie Meyers is an SEO Specialist at SEO Design Chicago. Before joining the SEO Design Chicago team, she interned for them and as a Content Writer at HZD Creates. Katie is from Washington State and has an AA and a Social Media Marketing Certificate.
Published by: International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog, TeamiPain
