Herniated Disks

Acute

What is Herniated Disks?

A herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped or ruptured) is a fragment of the disc nucleus that is pushed out of the annulus, into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture in the annulus. Discs that become herniated usually are in an early stage of degeneration.

Sharp pain in one part of the leg, hip, or buttocks and numbness in other parts. You may also feel pain or numbness on the back of the calf or sole of the foot. The same leg may also feel weak. These are usually indications of a slipped disc in the lower part of the spine.

  • Saddle anesthesia.
  • Worsening symptoms. Pain, numbness or weakness can increase to the point that they hamper your daily activities.
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction. Cauda equina syndrome can cause incontinence or trouble urinating even with a full bladder.

Disk herniation is most often the result of a gradual, aging-related wear and tear called disk degeneration. As people age, the disks become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist. Most people can't pinpoint the cause of their herniated disk.

  • Smoking.
  • Frequent driving.
  • Being sedentary.
  • Weight. Excess body weight causes extra stress on the disks in the lower back.
  • Occupation. People with physically demanding jobs have a greater risk of back problems.
  • Genetics. Some people inherit a predisposition to developing a herniated disk.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Exercise. Strengthening the trunk muscles stabilizes and supports the spine.
  • Maintain good posture. This reduces pressure on your spine and disks.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight puts more pressure on the spine and disks, making them more susceptible to herniation.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

Not every disc requires intervention. Surgery may be needed if numbness or weakness persists after six weeks, with poorly controlled pain. Difficulty standing or walking and loss of bladder or bowel control may also be present. Treatment may include medications such as muscle relaxants, neuropathic drugs, NSAIDs, physiotherapy, and possibly surgery when necessary.

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

Diskectomy is the surgical removal of the damaged portion of a herniated disk in the spine. A herniated disk occurs when some of the softer material inside the disk pushes out through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness or weakness.

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