25 Sep When is Herniated Disk Treatment needed?
Back pain, especially lower back pain, can be one of the most painful and debilitating conditions you ever experience. One common cause of back pain is a herniated disc.
The bones of the spine, or vertebrae, are separated and cushioned by spongy disc-like structures (intervertebral discs) that –
- act as shock absorbers
- provide flexibility for the spine
Sometimes, these discs become injured or damaged and break or bulge out. The lumbar region or the lower spine, is the worst affected.
Causes
Herniated disc can result due to various causes. With age, the discs don’t remain as flexible as when you are young. Wear and tear and injuries can crack or break your spinal discs.
Symptoms
Herniated discs that affect the nerves can cause pain and numbness. The location of the disc, and the nerve affected will determine the location of pain. For example, if the herniated disc is located in the lower back, the pain may travel from the lower back into the leg through the sciatic nerve.
Treatments
There are many treatment options for a herniated disc. Treatment options include –
- medications for pain relief, such as acetaminophen and NSAID drugs
- physical therapy
- epidural steroid injections
- nerve blocks
- surgery, in some cases
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgery that is used to relieve pain from a damaged disc. The surgery stabilizes the spine, and prevents further pain and damage.
No Comments