Herniated Disc

Herniated disc refers to a condition in which the disc that sits between vertebrae breaks open and loses its jelly-like substance. This condition affects the back and may not always cause symptoms.

Symptoms that do occur are described as a tingling pain or numbness that may spread down one or both legs.

Tests for herniated discs are not usually offered until symptoms have occurred for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

Tests for herniated discs include imaging scan like MRIs or CT scans that show what is happening with the tissue inside the back.

A physician should be seen if there is:

• New back pain
• Leg weakness
• Problems controlling the bladder or bowels
• “Foot drop” when you can not seem to keep to hold the foot up while walking etc
• Back/leg pain accompanied with a fever

Treatment

• Pain medication
• Muscle relaxants
• Injections
• Spinal manipulation: physical therapist adjusts the back
• Massage
• Keep active
• Surgery: for those with extreme discomfort, surgery involves removing the disc that is injured