A herniated disc is a problem that occurs when one of the intervertebral discs moves out of its normal position. In this way, it compresses the nerve roots that run through the spine. It happens most often in the lumbar and cervical regions. This is because the spine regions are naturally more mobile and susceptible to this degenerative process, that is, wear.
Risk Factors
Some conditions can be decisive when developing this disease. Such as, for example, overweight, smoking, lack of physical activity (sedentary lifestyle), and healthy lifestyle habits.
Herniated Disc Symptoms
The most common symptoms reported by patients are back pain (cervical and low back pain), pain radiating to the arm (in the case of cervical disc herniation), or the leg (in the disc herniation of the lumbar region). The intense pain that radiates to the thigh and leg is also called sciatica or sciatica. However, in addition to these complaints, patients may experience a tingling sensation in the arms and legs, a feeling of weakness, and, in more severe cases, loss of movement in the arms and legs. In addition, there may be changes in the person’s ability to control urination (bladder control).
Treatment
The early treatment usually includes a short rest period associated with painkillers and physiotherapy, and these measures are effective in over 90% of people. Therefore, only in more severe cases, which do not respond to the initial treatment, there may be a need for an operation, such as infiltrations or spinal surgery.
Prevention
The main ways to prevent this problem are regular physical activity and being guided by a health professional. Also, it is essential to avoid being overweight as well as cigarette smoking. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is, without a doubt, a great ally in preventing herniated disc (หมอน รอง กระดูก ปลิ้น which is the term in Thai)!
