Slip Disc in Back

The spinal column consist of a series of 24 bony segments which are known as vertebrae. In between every vertebrae bone, there is a soft cartilage tissue with a jelly like substance in it and is referred to as disc. It serves as a cushion and protects the bones from getting rubbed against each other. Slip disc in back is a condition where there is a rupture or split in one of these discs and its gel like content comes out of it. When a section of the degenerated disc starts exerting pressure on the nearby nerves in the spinal cord, then it gives rise to painful symptoms. It is also termed as herniated disc or prolapsed disk. It is more commonly found in lower back region but it can also occur in the upper back or neck.

Causes

The key factor responsible for causing slip disc is degeneration of the disc triggered by aging. With increase in age, the natural elastic properties of the bones and cartilages decreases resulting in this kind of wear and tear. Injury from repetitive use of the spinal column during activities like bending, sitting, lifting of heavy weights can cause slip disc in younger people. Poor posture and severe physical trauma can also lead to this problem.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms is a sharp back pain which is localized in nature and is confined to the area where the disc protrudes out. The intensity of the pain vary from mild to moderate. It depends on the pressure exerted upon the nerve root. Some patients find it so painful that they cannot even straighten the back. In many cases, the lower back pain is extended down to one or both the legs depending on the side of the spinal cord where the disc is herniated. Suppose if there is a slip disc on left side of the spinal cord, then the pain is felt on the left leg. Similarly, a right leg pain means the slipped disc is on the right. As it is a case of pinched nerve, the pain is often accompanied by tingling and numbness which is usually felt on the extreme parts like hands and feet. It also has a weakening effect on the muscles resulting in muscle spasms.

Treatment

When the symptoms are not very severe, then it can be treated with conservative methods of treatment, but of course, in consultation with a doctor. The first thing that needs to be done is to give rest to the back. That does not mean that you have to be in bed rest but you have to avoid all such activities that can aggravate the symptoms. For the first few days of the pain, application of ice helps a lot in relieving the pain. Hot packs by heating pads or hot baths also gives a soothing relief from the pain. Sometimes, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and muscle relaxants are also required for pain management. If the pain becomes unbearable, oral steroid medicines or cortisone injections are administered for pain relief. With all these treatments, one can recover from slipped disc in around four to six weeks time. Then it should be followed by mild back stretching exercises to strengthen the weak muscles. However, if there is no improvement in the pain after six weeks and the symptoms tend to deteriorate further, then doctors may have to opt for the surgical option as a last resort. Here the protruding section of the slipped disc is surgically removed to ease off the uncomfortable symptoms.

A slip disc in back can be prevented by practicing good back exercises regularly. They will make the back muscles strong and flexible and prevent injuries effectively. Walking, jogging, swimming are highly beneficial for this purpose.