A herniated disc is a common condition which can either be painful and weak. To some people, they refer to it as a slipped disc or disc prolapse. In some cases, it can cause pain, stiffness or weakness in the limbs. But in some people, they do not feel pain, mostly when the disc does not press on any nerves. Symptoms usually go away or disappear after a few weeks, but surgery may be recommended if the symptoms continue or become aggravated.
What are the Causes of a Herniated Disc?
The occurrence of a herniated disc is related to the weakening or the tearing of the outer ring which permits the inner portion to slip out. A herniated disc occurs with age. Some movements may also result in herniated disc. The disc can slip from its position as you move or turn to lift an object. When you lift a very large and heavy object, it can put a great strain on the lower back which leads to herniated disc. If you have a highly physically demanding job that requires a lot of lifting, your chance of developing herniated disc is high.
Individuals that are overweight are at high risk of developing herniated disc and this is due to the fact that their disc must support the extra weight. Other factors that contribute to the development of herniated disc are weak muscles and an inactive lifestyle.
As you grow older, you will likely encounter herniated disc. This is because the disc begins to lose some of their protective water content as you grow older. Sequel to this, they can easily slip out of place. Herniated disc is more common in men than in women.
Risk Factors
Below are the factors that increase the risk of herniated disc:
1. Weight. Excessive weight causes additional stress on the disc that is located in the lower back.
2. Job. Individuals who are doing jobs that demand physical strength are at higher risk of developing back problems. Recurrent lifting, pulling, pushing, bending sideways and twisting can also increase the risk of developing herniated disc.
3. Genetics. Some people inherit a predisposition to develop a herniated disc.
What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
The occurrence of these symptoms is often due to pressure on the nerves. An individual can have the symptoms listed below:
• Pain and stiffness, usually at one side of the body
• Pain that stretches to your hands or feet
• Pain that exacerbates at night or with certain movements
• Pain that aggravates after standing or sitting
• Pain when you trek a distance
• Sudden muscle weakness
• Tingling, pain or feeling of bruising in the affected area
In the event that the herniated disc appears at the lower back, the pains usually affect the buttocks, thighs, calves and possibly, the feet. This is often called sciatica and it is because the pain moves towards the path of the sciatic nerve. If the problem occurs in the neck, shoulders and hands usually feel pain. Fast movements or sneezes can cause pain.
Herniated Disc Treatment
Treatment for a Herniated Disc requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your back. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your back to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
