The main symptom of herniated disk is pain in the spine, which usually occurs in the area where the hernia is located, which may be in the cervical, lumbar or thoracic spine, for example. In addition, pain can follow the path of the nerves in the area, so it can even radiate to more distant places, reaching the legs or arms.
Other symptoms that may appear in herniated disks include tingling, numbness, or, in more severe cases, decreased strength or urinary incontinence. However, it’s important to remember that herniated disks don’t always cause symptoms or can only cause mild discomfort.
- A herniated disk occurs when the intervertebral disc and its gelatinous center.
- Which acts as a kind of spinal damper.
- Leave the correct location.
- Causing the nerves in the area to compression.
- Treatment is done with pain relievers.
- Physical therapy or.
- In some cases.
- Surgery.
- Learn more about herniated disks.
Symptoms of herniated disks vary by location and the most common are
In this type, the pain is located at the top of the spine, specifically in the neck. Nervous compression can cause the pain to spill out to your shoulder or arm. Other symptoms include:
Symptoms of a herniated disk may differ from person to person, as this depends on its location and the intensity of compression. These symptoms can appear suddenly, disappear spontaneously, and return to unpredictable intervals. But they can also be consistent and durable.
When this type of hernia occurs, severe back pain is common. But the other symptoms are:
The amount and intensity of symptoms depend on the location and intensity of nerve damage. Generally, loss of strength indicates severe deterioration and should be evaluated quickly by the orthopedist or neurosurgeon.
Herniated thoracic disc is less common, occurring only in 5% of cases, but when it occurs, it can cause:
When these symptoms of a herniated disk appear, it is recommended that you consult an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon for evaluation and order imaging tests such as x-rays, MRIs, or spinal scans, for example.
Depending on the test results, treatment may be performed by physical therapy or surgery, depending on each person’s needs and the severity of the problem. Understand how thoracic herniated hernias are treated.
The main cause of the development of a herniated disk is the gradual wear of the intervertebral discs between each of the two vertebrae of the spine. Thus, this problem is more common in people over 45 years of age, due to the natural aging process.
In addition, herniated disks are also more common among workers who often have to lift heavy objects, such as construction workers. People with spinal injuries, repetitive efforts without advice or inflammation or spinal infection are also more likely to develop the disorder.
Most cases of herniated disc are caused by a person’s genetic predisposition, but their formation is also influenced by several factors, such as physical inactivity and insufficient physical exertion, such as making sudden, incorrect movements, or lifting too much weight. Therefore, to avoid the formation of a herniated disk, it is important to:
See, in the video below, these and other tips, guided by the physical therapist: