Disc Herniation Symptoms

Disc herniation is a painful condition in which the discs that are an integral part of the spine (backbone) in our back get damaged. As we all know, the spine is made up of 33 bones. The discs have shock absorbing characteristics and are placed between the bones to reduce friction and maintain the flexibility of the spine. Over time, these spinal discs wear out and become more rigid. As a result, a small part of the disc bulges out beyond its normal position. This disc that is pushed out of its normal place is called a herniated disc. This condition may also occur due to an injury during an accident.

Disc Herniation Symptoms

People with disc herniation may not show any symptoms for quite some time. In some cases, the onset of symptoms of disc herniation is sudden and requires immediate treatment. Backache and restricted motion of the affected part is the most common symptom associated with herniated disc. Some other warning signs of disc herniation are as follows:

Sharp Shooting Pain
In this condition, the spinal nerves are often subjected to undue pressure. As a result, these nerves that extend throughout the body get compressed, which eventually leads to severe pain. For instance, when the spinal nerve that travels to the leg is pinched, a sharp shooting pain radiates down the limb. When the nerves running through the neck region are pressed, the person experiences pain that travels down the arms.

Leg Pain
The person may experience intermittent periods of severe pain in the leg. Leg pain may worsen by standing for a long period of time. People get some relief by lying down or walking. It is recommended that the person should remain in a position that reduces the pressure on the herniated disc.

Loss of Strength
The spinal nerves act as a pathway to deliver signals coming from the brain. Due to compression of the nerves, the signals are interrupted which can cause muscle weakness, diminish alertness and hamper reflexes. It limits the patient's ability to perform daily activities.

Unusual Sensations
People suffering from herniated disc often experience numbness in certain body parts, especially in the legs followed by tingling and pain. Besides pain, the person may have needle pricking sensation in the ankle, thigh or foot.

Complications in Bowel Movement
Bowel problems may occur due to herniated disc. Lack of proper treatment may also give rise to bladder problems such as severe pain while urinating. Some patients experience numbness around the genital area. This requires urgent medical treatment, and failing to do so can be life threatening.

Lumber Disc Herniation Symptoms

When this spinal condition (abnormal positioning of the disc) occurs in the lower back, it is termed as lumber disc herniation. Common symptoms include back pain and stiffness. Numbness in the buttock that may affect the leg is also associated with lumber disc herniation.

Complete bed rest for a short period of time can help to decrease the disc herniation symptoms. Pain relievers like acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also useful for pain management. The doctor may also advice the patient to perform some exercises to gain strength and restore normal activity. Application of a heating pad can also be play an important role to reduce the severity of the pain. Spinal decompression therapy is also beneficial to treat lower back pain. Generally the pain will subside within 2 - 6 months by following different treatment options.