Disc Herniations

 
A herniated disc if often called “a bulged disc” or “a slipped or ruptured disc. It is when a small part of the disc is pushed out of alignment and into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture. We frequently see patients here at our Advanced Spinal Care Center in Spanish Fork who are suffering with disc related pain. 

The vertebrae bones in the back that form the spine are cushioned by discs. These discs are small round and “pillow” like. They have a tough outer layer called the annulus that surrounds the nucleus center. These discs are located between each of the vertebrae bones in the spinal column, and act as shock absorbers for the spinal vertebrae bones.

Discs that become herniated (bulging) are most often in an early stage of degeneration. The spinal canal has limited space, which is not adequate for the spinal nerve and the displaced herniated disc “bulge”. Due to this displacement, the disc then presses on spinal nerves, often producing pain, which may be severe and debilitating.

Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine and can irritate a nearby nerve. Herniated discs are more common in the lower back (lumbar spine), but also occur in the neck (cervical spine). 

Depending on where the herniated disk is, it can result in pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.The area in which pain is experienced depends on what part of the spine is affected.

A single strain, stretch or injury can cause a herniated disc. However, disc material also degenerates naturally as we get older, and the ligaments that hold it in place begin to weaken. As this degeneration progresses, a relatively small strain or simple twisting movement can cause a disc to rupture.

Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to disc problems and, as a result, may suffer herniated discs in several places along the spine at the same time. There is research that shows herniated discs may exist in families with more than one of its members affected.

It is advisable to seek medical attention if your neck or back pain travels down your arm or leg, or if you also have numbness, tingling or weakness.

If you suffer pain symptoms from disc herniations - Why wait?, Call our office in Spanish Fork today at 801-823-3112 and let’s talk about getting you back to your normal healthy self!