Herniated disc, also known as slipped or ruptured disc, is a spinal condition that causes excruciating pain. In this comprehensive article, top spine doctor in Delhi explains herniated discs, covering everything from the causes and symptoms to treatment.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in its tough outer layer. These discs are shock absorbers between the vertebrae in the spine.
Discs provides flexibility and cushioning during movement. When a disc herniates, it can exert pressure on nearby nerves, leading to a following symptoms.
Symptoms of Herniated Disc:
- Pain: The location of the pain depends on the affected disc’s position in the spine.
- Numbness or Tingling: Pressure on spinal nerves causing sensations of numbness or tingling in the affected area. This radiates along the nerve pathway.
- Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerves
- Sciatica: If a herniated disc in the lower back puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, it causea sciatica—a condition characterized by pain radiating down the leg.
- Changes in Reflexes: Reflexes get affected, and even loss of bladder or bowel control occur.
Causes of Herniated Disc:
- The natural aging process cause wear and tear on the intervertebral discs. As we age, the discs lose water content, making them less flexible and more susceptible to herniation.
- Sudden and severe trauma, such as a fall or a blow to the back, causes a disc to herniate. Improper lifting techniques, especially with a twisting motion, lead to disc herniation.
- Repetitive activities or movements that strain the spine, such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting, can contribute to disc herniation over time.
Diagnosis of Herniated Discs
A thorough examination of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination to assess symptoms, reflexes, and range of motion. Followed by Imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans to provide images of the spine, allowing your neurosurgeon to treat the herniated disc and know its impact on surrounding structures.
To assess nerve function and identify any abnormalities caused by the herniated disc are also observed.
Treatment of Herniated Disc in Dwarka Sector 12, Delhi
- Rest and Activity Modification: Initially, resting and avoiding activities to exacerbate symptoms help alleviate pain.
- Pain Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or analgesics are prescribed for pain relief.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility.
- Heat or Ice Application: Applying heat or ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids are used into the epidural around the affected nerve to provide anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and swelling.
Herniated Disc surgery in Delhi
If symptoms are severe, surgery can also be suggested by top neurosurgeon in Delhi. Common procedures include:
- Discectomy: Removal of the herniated portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the nerves.
- Laminectomy: Removal of a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create more space for the nerves.
What helps to recover fast from the Herniated Disc Surgery
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy becomes essential for strengthening the back muscles and improving overall spinal health.
Activity Modification
Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and related activities to prevent recurrence of disc herniation.
Preventing Herniated Discs
- Excess weight puts additional strain on the spine, increasing the risk of disc herniation. Hence maintaining a healthy weight is a must
- Using proper lifting techniques, such as bending the knees and keeping the back straight reduce the risk of injury.
- Engaging in regular exercise, including activities that strengthen the core muscles, support the spine and prevent disc problems.
Herniated disc is a spine condition that significantly affects the life of patients. Through therapy, posture habits, or surgery is a choice that needs proper consultation from a good neurosurgeon in Delhi who has expertise in dealing with the patients of a herniated disc.
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