The spinal bones are cushioned by small discs which keep the spine flexible and absorb shock, occasionally these discs can become damaged and can either bulge out or become broken. This condition is known as a herniated disc.

The event can happen to any of the spinal discs, sometimes in the cervical spine at the neck, and more rarely in the thoracic spine on the upper part of the back, but it most commonly occurs in the lumber region which is the lower back.

Causes of Herniated Disc.

This herniated disc condition can be brought about by the aging process as the discs become less flexible, or by injury to the spine.

Any injury can cause small cracks to the outer hard layer of the disc allowing the inner absorbent gel to leak out, causing the disc to bulge or break.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc.

-          Sciatica is the most usual sign of a herniated disc in the lumbar region (lower back), it can result in numbness and pain in the buttocks and legs.

-          If the herniated disc presses onto the nerve roots, which spread out from the spinal cord, and join up with the spinal nerve, then pain and numbness can occur in the area of the body to which the nerve travels.

-          In the case of experiencing such pain or numbness, especially in both legs and loss of bladder or bowel control happens, this could be a sign of Cauda Equina Syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of a Herniated Disc.

The doctor can often positively diagnose a herniated disc as a result of a direct examination of the patient and by asking a few relevant questions. There are occasions however when there is doubt and the doctor may want to carry out tests, these maybe either CT scan (Computed Tomography) or MRI ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Any of these tests can readily identify and confirm a herniated disc or indeed other health problems.

What is the Treatment?

Usually a herniated disc heals within a few months or even weeks in some cases, but treatments like the following can be given to help recovery.

-          Unless the pain is too severe then it is recommended that the patient remains active, lying in bed can weaken muscles and worsen the back problem, light exercise and walking can be beneficial.

-          Carry out any other exercises which the doctor recommends, to try to increase the strength of the back muscles.

-          Applying an ice pack or teat pad to the sore area may be comforting.

-          The doctor can suggest some form of medicine, and while this will not cure the herniated disc, can certainly help in reducing pain and any swellings.

It is sound advice for any person suffering a herniated disc to be patient and continue with the recommended treatment, normally the condition will heal within a month as is the experience of most people, but if no improvement is forthcoming, then a consultation with the doctor about back surgery would be advisable.

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