Herniated disc

In the case of a herniated disc, the intervertebral tissue presses on the nerves in the area of the spine and can thus trigger pain or muscle tension. These symptoms are mainly felt in the area of the lumbar vertebrae, cervical vertebrae or in the spinal cord.

Causes

Symptoms

Diagnosis and treatment

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Causes

The causes of a slipped disc can be of various kinds. Factors that favour a slipped disc include:

Increasing age
Lack of exercise
Excess weight
Poor posture
Sports that put a lot of strain on the spine
Heavy lifting

Sections of the spine

Injuries and diseases of the intervertebral discs

Herniated disc in the thoracic spine

Slipped disc in the cervical spine – cervical disc herniation

Herniated disc in the lumbar spine

Intervertebral disc prosthesis | Artificial intervertebral disc

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary in severity from case to case and are experienced by patients in a personal way. The most common symptoms include back pain, which can extend into the buttocks as well as the legs. Pain can also extend into the neck and arms. Those affected also often report a feeling of tingling or numbness in the extremities. In severe cases, paralysis and bowel and bladder dysfunction can occur - if these symptoms occur, action should be taken quickly.

Diagnosis and treatment

Neurological tests and examinations of the spine can be used to diagnose a herniated disc. Thanks to radiological procedures (magnetic resonance imaging or computer tomography), the exact location and extent can be determined.

Treatment is determined according to the individual case and the severity of the incident. For example, conservative therapy using painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs together with physiotherapy can already ensure an improvement. If the conservative method does not achieve the desired results, a surgical intervention may be considered.