Herniated discs are a condition affecting the bones of the spine; it occurs when the inner material of an intervertebral disc shifts out of place, compressing a nerve and affecting motor function, explains Dr. Sergio Soriano Solís, orthopedist and spine surgery specialist at ABC Medical Center.
We have 33 discs in the spine, and any one of them can develop a herniation, though symptoms can vary depending on the affected area.
“Over time, the intervertebral disc can lose elasticity and its ability to bear weight; changes typically begin around age 30, reducing the disc’s resilience and leading to compression of the nerve roots, which causes local pain. If the nucleus pulposus shifts out of place, this results in an intervertebral disc herniation.”
In lumbar hernias, the region most commonly affected by disc herniation, symptoms can include pain radiating from the buttocks into the thighs or calves, numbness, tingling, and a feeling of weakness in the legs.
On the other hand, if the hernia occurs in the cervical region, in the neck, symptoms include pain in the shoulders, arms, or forearms. Tingling, weakness, and numbness in that area of the body may also occur.
Although it’s common to associate leg or arm pain with herniated discs, Dr. Soriano notes that not all cases involve pain, and some hernias are diagnosed when patients come in for entirely different reasons.
It’s important to treat herniated discs, since if the resulting nerve compression lasts too long, it can lead to lasting effects such as permanent weakness in the feet or legs, excessive or reduced sensation in the limbs, and persistent numbness or tingling.
What Is the Treatment for a Herniated Disc?When an orthopedist decides on a treatment approach for a herniated disc, several factors need to be considered, such as the patient’s symptoms and level of pain.
In most cases, herniated discs resolve with physical therapy and medication over the course of about four to six weeks.
However, for patients experiencing weakness in a leg or arm, or when that weakness worsens over time, surgery may be recommended. Surgery may also be considered for people with intractable or severe pain that hasn’t responded to physical therapy or medication.
Surgical treatment for a herniated disc has up to a 90% chance of good to excellent results, notes Dr. Soriano.
Tips to Help Prevent a Herniated DiscThere are several steps you can take to help prevent a herniated disc from developing:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking, or don’t start.
- Practice good spinal hygiene, meaning being mindful of posture and avoiding lifting excessively heavy objects.
- While genetic factors can’t be changed, following the steps above can help lower the risk of developing a herniated disc.
At ABC Medical Center’s Orthopedics and Trauma Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
