Ruptured Disc
A ruptured disc, also known as a herniated disc, occurs when one of the spinal discs develops a crack or tear on the outer wall. The inner disc is pushed out and into the spinal canal causing pain and discomfort. If a disc is pushed into the spinal canal, you might experience limited range and mobility due to pain.The pain shouldn’t be ignored since it can be very severe.
Ruptured discs are most commonly located in the spine. It is the most common case for back pain and sciatica. They can occur anywhere in the spine, but most cases develop in the lumbar spine.
Ruptured discs develop through age-related wear and tear. They start out as strong tissues that can withstand more pressure and shocks. As you get older, the discs start to lose their flexibility leaving you more prone to damaging your discs. Cracks and tears become more frequent because of less water and elasticity in the discs.
Ruptured discs can also be caused by traumatic injuries such as car accidents, hard falls, or hard blows to the back. Jobs that require movement and heavy lifting can also cause ruptured discs because some people lift with their back instead of their knees. This is also important for exercises involving your back because one wrong move can cause a disc to move or tear.
Symptoms for ruptured discs include:
- Pain (ranging for dull to intense).
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Shooting pain traveling through the nerves or spine.
- Loss of movement.
Symptoms of ruptured discs can also be symptoms of other spinal conditions such as spinal stenosis and bone spurs. It is important to get an X-Ray or MRI of your spine before it can be determined as a rupture disc.
Treatment for ruptured discs can vary. If the pain is dull, then medication, heating pads, and physical therapy can help treat it. If the disc is completely out of place or pain is severe, surgery may be required.
Any back pain or discomfort should not be ignored. Orthopedic SpineCare of Long Island will help you treat your herniated or ruptured disc.
