Herniated Disc
Description
Herniated, bulging, compressed, ruptured, slipped. These are the many names for this condition caused by worn-down, degenerated vertebral cushioning. This naturally occurs when the cushioning between vertebral discs leaks out and irritates nerves. Read on for more.
Causes & Triggers
- Age-related wear and tear
- Repetitive, spine-stressing activity (especially lifting, bending, twisting)
- Smoking, excess weight and sedentary lifestyle
- Sudden injury
Signs & Symptoms
- Numbness
- Pain (especially in back, leg, foot)
- Tingling
- Weakness
Tips & Treatment
- This condition is most common in men between the ages of 30 and 50.
- For this condition, staying active may prove more beneficial than bed rest.
- Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, hot or cold packs, back or neck massage, back and abdominal exercises, and/or steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Surgical intervention may be necessary if non-surgical therapies do not resolve pain issues.
