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Herniated Disks

Spinal Intervertebral disks image are small, round cushions between the vertebrae of the spinal column that have a tough, fibrous tissue on the outside and a watery, gelatinous material inside. The purpose of these disks is to cushion each vertebrae during movement. A herniated disk image is a disk that has bulged out from its proper place. It may press on nearby nerves and cause severe pain. Cause of A Herniated Disk? A herniated disk occurs when the disk is damaged by a number of situations. Some of the most common causes of a disk injury are:     * a fall or accident     * Repeated straining of your back     * A sudden strain on the back - from lifting or twisting violently     * Degeneration due to aging     * Spontaneous herniation can occur without any specific injury When the disk is damaged, the soft rubbery center of the disk squeezes out through a weak point in the fibrous outter layer, causing a bulge that often presses on nearby nerves. Symptoms of a herniated disk may begin suddenly or gradually. Sudden aching in the back or neck or being unable to straighten without extreme pain are signs of herniated disk problems. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in one or both arms is anotehr sign of herniated disks. The following diagnostic tests are often necessary to diagnose a herniated disk:     * x-rays of your spine     * CT scan     * magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)     * electromyography     * myelography     * diskography Treatment of A Herniated Disk Conservative treatment may relieve most cases of herniated disk pain and allow the body to heal the disc over time. Early treatment may include:     * Rest. By resting the back there is time for the body to reabsorb the herniated part of the disk and the heal     * Anti-inflammatory medications     * Hot or cold packs, depending on your doctor's recommendation     * Traction, (putting bones or muscles under tension to keep them from moving or to relieve pressure on them)     * Massage     * Physical therapy     * Steroid injections into the space near the herniated disk to control pain and inflammation. As the pain lessens, you will most likely begin physical therapy to strengthen your back muscles and joints. Sometimes disk problems require surgery. The acute pain from a herniated disk should go away within a few weeks, but some pain may remain for a few months. Backaches may be common in those with a history of disk problems, therefore continual back strengthening and stretching exercises are recommended throughout life. Good biomechanics are also essential to protect the spine when lifting exercising. Prevention includes:     * Using good posture and proper lifting techniques     * Avoid standing in one place for long periods of time     * Stretch often when sitting for long periods of time     * Use chairs with good back support     * Sleep on a firm mattress     * Sleep on your side not your stomach     * Stop and rest often while on long road trips Avoid returning too quickly to activity or exercise or you may risk aggravating your injury, which could lead to permanent damage.

 

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