1. Introduction
A herniated disc is a condition that affects the back. It can cause pain, numbness, or tingling down one or both legs. The discs have a tough outer shell and jelly-like center. The outer shell of the discs can sometimes break open, spilling the jelly material inside, where running the spinal nerves. This is what doctors call a herniated disc. Herniated discs can cause symptoms, because the jelly material that spills out of them can irritate nearby nerves. Plus, the disc itself can bulge and press on nerves.
2. Symptoms
Herniated discs do not always cause symptoms. When they do, the most common symptoms are tingling, pain, or numbness that spreads down one leg. These symptoms affect different parts of the leg, depending on which disc in the lower back is herniated.
3. Examinations
Imaging tests, such as an MRI or a CT scan, can show what the tissues inside the back look like. These tests can find a herniated disc if one is there.
4. When To See a Doctor
See your doctor or nurse right away if you have:
◆ New back pain that goes into the groin or down the leg
◆ Back or leg pain along with leg weakness or problems controlling your bowels or bladder
◆ A problem called "foot drop," which is when you cannot seem to hold your foot up. You might notice this especially while walking.
◆ Back or leg pain along with a fever or other symptoms that worry you
5. Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery to treat a herniated disc usually involves removing the part of the disc that is damaged. Sometimes, the entire disc is removed. It could help you feel better faster than you would without surgery. But, like any surgery, it also comes with risks.
Although surgery can speed up recovery, it is not usually necessary for a herniated disc. That's because over time the body absorbs the jelly from a damaged disc and heals in its own. But this can take months.
People who have a lot of discomfort or who want to get better fast, sometimes choose surgery. People who are afraid of surgery or who feel like they can cope with their symptoms sometimes decide against surgery.
6. Lifestyle Adjustment
One of the most important things you can do to feel better is to stay as active as possible. Even if you have some pain or discomfort, you should not stay in bed or rest too long.
People used to think that bedrest was the best thing for an injured back. The truth is, bedrest can actually make back problems worse. That's because the back can get weak and stiff with too much rest.
Do not worry that you will do yourself harm by being active. It might hurt a bit more when you move around, but activity will do you good.
You can find professional doctors and experts about this disease here for your further consultation and treatment.
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