“A herniated disk occurs when there is an issue with one of the rubbery cushions (disks), that sits between the spinal vertebrae. A spinal disk has a soft, jellylike centre encased in a tougher, rubbery exterior. Sometimes called a slipped, or ruptured disk, a herniated disk occurs when some of the jelly-like centre pushes out through a tear in the rubbery exterior” [1]
Overview
Although it can appear in any part of the spine, generally speaking, a herniated disk is more likely to be in the lower back (although it could also occur in the neck). You may experience weakness, numbness or pain in one of your arms or legs, according to where your herniated disk is located. – This is because in most instances, herniated disks only impact one side of the body [1].
Symptoms
“Seek medical attention from a Pain Specialist if your neck or back pain travels down your arm or leg, or if you also have numbness, tingling or weakness” [1]
You may not actually have any symptoms. Although symptoms and signs are linked to: 1: whether the disk is pressing on a nerve. And 2: where the affected disc is situated [1]. If you have any of the following symptoms, book an appointment with an Experienced Pain Specialist who will be able to conduct the relevant tests and scans, and give you an accurate diagnosis. They will then put you on a holistic Personalised Treatment Plan that will incorporate both conventional and the latest cutting-edge treatments. It is a good idea to start a ‘Pain Diary,’ listing when you experience the pain etc., and what you are doing at the time. – That way, you can show it to your Pain Doctor.
Look out for the following symptoms:
•Pain in your arm, shoulder, leg, foot, buttock, thigh or calf
•Tingling or numbness
•Weakness [1].
So What’s the Cause of My herniated Disk?
In the majority of cases, this unwelcome condition is due to disk degeneration – that is to say, slow, age-related wear and tear. As we get older, our disks become more rigid, and this makes them more susceptible to rupturing and tearing. – Something that can come about from a minor twist or strain [1].
Another potential cause could be lifting something heavy by: incorrectly using the back muscles, instead of the leg and thigh muscles. Or twisting or turning at the same time [1].
Reference
[1]. Mayo Clinic (2022). “Herniated Disk.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095#:~:text=This pain might shoot into,served by the affected nerves.
