5 Things You Should Know About herniated disc

What is the herniated disc? Our spine is made up of 26 bones, or vertebrae, which include soft discs, which exert the function of cushioning the vertebrae and hold them in place. As we grow older, as most common cause, discs may see diminished their capacity and break. When this breakdown occurs, the gelatinous substance leaves the inside of the disc can cause irritation of the surrounding nerves, causing back pain or sciatica.

intervertebral discs

The discs are formed by a coating or fibrous outer ring and rigid; inside it is soft with a jelly-like texture. They act as shock absorbers and facilitate the connection between vertebrae. The discs distributed effort in the column to prevent damage.

Types of herniated disc

When the nucleus gelatinous crosses the ring appears the hernia. There are different types, depending on where it has escaped the gelatin or core. Thus, we can speak of direct inguinal hernia, indirect inguinal hernia, and central or paracentral inguinal hernia.

Causes

The hernia may be due to a structural abnormality of the disc, an alteration of their biochemical properties as a result of the age or by repeated microtrauma. Among the risk factors, a sedentary lifestyle, bad posture, overexertion or a bad fall.

Symptoms

The most obvious symptom is pain, throbbing pain, localized and which may be continued if the nerve root is involved. Symptoms also include tingling sensation in the lower limbs, loss of strength and inability to perform movements.

Diagnosis and treatment

To diagnose the herniated disc will be performed MRI and CT scan. In most cases, the first therapeutic approach is to administer anti-inflammatory drugs, combined with physical therapy. In other cases, surgery is needed.