This week Marion Kerrgives the lowdown on herniated disks
I developed low back pain a couple of weeks ago and was diagnosed with a herniated disc. Can you explain what that is?
Pain in the lower back is a common complaint and is estimated to affect up to 80 per cent of people at some stage in their lives. It is thought to be the leading cause of disability in those aged between 19 and 45 and becomes more common as people get older.
Understanding what a disc herniation is becomes easier when we know something about the structure of the spine. Consisting of a series of bones called vertebrae and separated by shock-absorbing cartilage called discs, the spine is held in place by a series of muscles and ligaments.
The spinal cord is encased within this bony protective structure with the spinal nerves emerging at intervals through the spaces between the vertebrae before connecting to nerves throughout the body.
The cushioning discs have a tough covering and a jelly-like interior. Damage to the disc can occur as a result of acute traumatic injury or repeated low-grade stress. Pressure on a disc can cause it to be caught between the vertebrae lying above and below it. The disc's covering may tear (called a ruptured disc) and the soft interior can squeeze through the tear causing a bulge or herniation. The herniated disc can compress or irritate the spinal nerve as it emerges through the space between the vertebra.
I have back pain and numbness but my brother, who was diagnosed with the same problem, had shooting pains down his leg. Why, if we have the same thing, do we have different symptoms?
The symptoms experienced as a result of a herniated disc will depend on the disc's location. Pain is usually felt along the pathway of the particular nerve being pressed on by the herniated disc. Disc problems can cause pressure on the sciatic nerve which can result in sharp pain, numbness and muscle weakness in one of the legs. Others have pain ranging from dull to intense, localised muscular soreness, bladder and bowel problems.
Is surgery always necessary?
The majority of herniated discs respond well to non-invasive treatments. Conservative treatment, which may include the application of hot and cold packs, analgesia in the form of tablets or topically applied gels and physiotherapy, can speed recovery and promote return of function. If the symptoms persist then surgery to remove all or part of the damaged disc may be necessary.