Comprehensive Guide to Herniated Discs Causes, diagnosis and the latest methods of treatment
What is the herniated disc?
A herniated disc is a condition that occurs when the inside of a herniated disc comes out of place and presses on the spinal cord or nerves.
A herniated disc, also known as a disc slip or vertebral herniated disc, is a medical condition that occurs when a part of the disc (vertebral cartilage) moves out of its normal place and presses on the nerves or surrounding tissue in the spine.
Discs are located between the vertebrae of the spine and are rubber cushions that help absorb shock and provide support.
this usually occurs as a result of damage or progressive wear of the disc, and may lead to symptoms such as pain, loss of sensuality, muscle weakness.
People most prone to herniated discs
Most often, people between the ages of 30 and 50 develop a herniated disc but the problem affects men twice as often as women. Other risk factors include:
- Prolonged sitting in the same position.
- Weight gain.
- Lifting heavy objects.
- Repeated bending or twisting movements for work, sports or hobbies.
- Smoking
Causes of herniated disc
The tablets have smooth jelly-like centers and a more stable outer layer, like a jelly cake. Over time, the outer layer weakens and can crack.
A herniated disc occurs when an internal “gel” substance pushes through the crack. The leaked substance may put pressure on nearby spinal nerves.
Several factors can contribute to a ruptured disc, including:
- Old age.
- Excess weight.
- Repetitive movements.
- Sudden strain from improper lifting or twisting.
Symptoms of a herniated disc
The symptoms of a herniated disc vary depending on where the problem is in your spine. Symptoms worsen with movement and improve with rest.
It is common for a herniated disc in the lower back to cause “sciatic nerve” pain. This sharp pain usually triggers one side of the buttock in your leg and sometimes the foot.
Other symptoms of a herniated disc in your lower back include:
- Back pain.
- Numbness or numbness of the back, neck or leg.
- Muscle weakness.
- Difficulty walking or standing.
Diagnosis of herniated disc
A competent doctor will conduct a comprehensive test. During physical therapy, pain, muscle reflexes, sensation and muscle strength are assessed. The doctor also orders tests such as:
- Magnetic resonance imaging: the most common and accurate imaging test for a suspected herniated disc is magnetic resonance imaging.
- X-ray: getting an X-ray helps to rule out other causes of back or neck pain.
- Computed tomography: computed tomography shows the bones of the spine. Herniated discs can move into the space surrounding the spinal cord and nerves and squeeze them.
- Myelography: myelography involves injecting a dye into your spine using X-ray instructions for a CT scan. The dye can reveal the narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) and the location of the herniated disc.
- Electromyogram: this test involves placing small needles in different muscles and evaluating the function of your nerves. An electromyogram helps to determine which nerve the herniated disc affects.
Herniated disc treatment techniques
Herniated disc treatment techniques depend on the intensity of the pain and the impact caused by the herniated disc, and can include a variety of technical and medical options. Here is some detailed information:
- The nature of physiotherapy
- It includes strength exercises and rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the lumbar vertebrae.
- It is aimed at strengthening the back muscles and improving the flexibility of the spine.
- The main features of drug therapy
- Use painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Treatments aimed at relieving muscle spasms surrounding the vertebrae can be used.
- The interventional procedures
Through the use of lumbar injections, in which substances such as cortisone are injected directly into the damaged area to reduce inflammation.
Surgical treatment
Endoscopic herniated disc removal: removal of the damaged part of the disc (cartilage) to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Vertebral fixation operation: it can be performed to reduce excessive mobility between the vertebrae and stabilize the damaged area.
Endoscopic herniated disc removal operation
Endoscopic herniated disc removal or what is known as discectomy is a surgical operation that uses endoscopic technology to remove the damaged parts of the disc (cartilage) in the spine.
This operation has many benefits compared to traditional open surgery, including a shorter recovery period and reduced scarring.
Steps of the Surgery
The surgery is carried out as follows:
- Patient preparation:
The location of the damaged disc is determined using imaging devices, such as magnetic resonance and X-rays.
- Anesthesia:
The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure that he does not feel any pain during the operation.
- Access by endoscope:
A thin tube (endoscope) is inserted through a small piece into the skin near the target area.
- Photographing the area:
The endoscope system provides a clear view of the disk and the structures surrounding it.
- Disc removal:
Special tools are used to remove the damaged parts of the disc without the need for a large opening in the skin.
- Closure
The wound is closed minimally by sutures or surgical tape.
Advantages of the operation
The advantages of the operation are as follows:
- Shorter recovery period: the use of endoscopic technique reduces pain and speeds up the healing process.
- Scar reduction: since the surgery is done through small cuts, the resulting scars are less visible.
- Reduce the risk of surgery: laparoscopic surgery is associated with lower risks than traditional open surgery, such as bleeding, swelling and infection.
- Accuracy in diagnosis: accurate endoscopic vision provides doctors with the possibility of more accurate diagnosis of injuries.
With the advancement of medical technology, laparoscopic herniated disc removal operations have become an effective and safe option for many people with spinal problems.
Vertebroplasty (reconstruction of the spine) to repair a severe herniated disc
Vertebroplasty is a complex surgical procedure that is used to treat severe herniated discs or ruptures in the spine.
The goal of this operation is to strengthen and position the vertebrae so that slipping is prevented, pain and muscle spasm are reduced.
Steps of the Surgery
The surgery is carried out as follows:
- Patient Assessment and Preparation:
The medical team conducts a comprehensive assessment of the patient, including medical history, physical examination, and medical imaging, to determine the location and severity of the herniated disc.
The assessment may also include other tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scanning.
- Patient Anesthesia:
The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they do not feel any pain during the procedure.
- Incision and Access:
Small incisions are made in the skin to access the affected spinal column. These incisions are typically made in the back or side areas of the spinal column.
- Spinal Preparation:
Damaged tissues and the affected disc (cartilage) are removed to prepare the vertebrae for stabilization. This may also involve removing bone or cartilage from the vertebrae.
- Vertebrae Stabilization:
The damaged vertebrae are stabilized using surgical screws and rods. Bone grafts may also be used to enhance bone healing.
The incision is closed using sutures or surgical tape.
Advantages of the operation
The benefits of vertebroplasty are as follows:
- Improve the stability of the spine: fixation reduces the mobility of the affected vertebrae and improves the stability of the spine.
- Reduce pain: fixation can relieve pressure on nerves and reduce pain.
- Improve the function of the spine: the fixation can bring the vertebrae back to normal and improve the function of the spine.
- Reduce the chances of additional rupture: fixation can reduce the chances of additional rupture of surrounding tissues and discs.
Preventing Herniated Disc problem
It’s not always possible to prevent herniated discs, but you can reduce your risk by:
- Using proper lifting techniques: Don’t bend at the waist. Instead, bend your knees while keeping your back straight. Use your strong leg muscles to help support the load.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight puts pressure on your lower back.
- Practicing good posture: Learn how to improve your posture when walking, sitting, standing, and sleeping. Good posture reduces pressure on your spine.
- Avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes: This type of footwear throws your spine out of alignment.
- Exercising regularly: Focus on exercises that strengthen the back and abdominal muscles to support your spine.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking can weaken discs, making them more prone to tearing. Consider quitting smoking.
