Slip Disc And Its Cause, Symptoms & Treatment

In most cases of back pain, leg pain, or weakness of lower extremity muscles are often diagnosed with a slipped disc. It is wrongly misunderstood that in any case of a slipped disc, the only solution is surgery.  Here we will discuss various causes of slip disc and its treatment options.

How A Slipped Disc Occurs?

A slipped disc occurs when the cushion that sits between the spinal vertebrae is pushed outside its normal position. This condition is also known as a prolapsed disc; the situation can be worse and can happen to anyone. Now an accurate diagnosis is required to determine the specific and effective treatment for slip disc.

Now a slipped disc can put unwanted pressure on the lower spinal nerve roots that comprise the sciatic nerve. This may lead to the pain which travels from the lower back to the legs.

Symptoms Of Slip Disc

The symptoms are varied depending upon the level of the displacement of the cushion in the affected disc. Lower back pain or sciatica is the most common symptoms, and it varies in intensity from mild to severe. The occurrence of symptoms can be abrupt or gradual and may be of the sort like sharp, burning leg pain, tingling or numbness in the buttocks, legs or feet.

A few movements can be effected like bending forward, or twisting could intensify the pain. Even sitting for a prolonged period, sneezing or coughing. Also, a patient can experience weakness in one or both legs, and in some circumstances, loss of bladder or bowel movements may happen.

Also, keep in mind that with the aging process, the discs lose their lubricating cushion as they get dehydrated and become more susceptible to friction and wear off naturally. Other factors that could affect the discs are substantial or incorrect lifting, incorrect posture, repetitive twisting movements, sports, smoking, obesity, and traumatic injury.

Now 90% of people suffering from slip disc do not need surgery. A simple clinical investigation is sufficient to diagnose the severity of the slip disc. The medical consultant will go through the family and personal history to evaluate it. In addition to it, some tests like – EMG, CT, or MRI might be required to pinpoint the exact area of damage.

Treatment For Slip Disc

There are various methods for the slip disc treatment, but here we have listed some most essential ways which help you to recover from this frustrating condition.

• Conservative measures such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, analgesics, and activity modification
• In instances of severe and intensive pain, epidural, nerve blocks may be employed
• These injections are an office-based procedure with minimal downtime and may be performed up to three times, usually two or three weeks apart
• The recurrence of disc injury is avoided with some intensive physical therapy

There are many diagnostic and treatment centers that specialize in the treatment of slip disc and can be contacted at any time of the day.

Some Home Remedies to Avoid Slip Disc

Adopting change in the lifestyle can protect you from getting severe pain. Most of the people consume pain killer to avoid it taking medicine to have some side effect. Below are some home remedies which can protect you from slip disc:

• Apply heat and cold therapy

Initially using ice pack reduces the inflammation, which is the main reason for pain. After some time, you may switch to the gentle heat therapy, which provides relief and comfort.

• Do Regular Physical Activity

Lack of physical activity may lead to stiffness and weaken the muscle. It slows down the recovery process. Performing regular physical activity such as walking, may reduce the change of slip disc. But be careful to avoid all those acts which worsen your pain.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization

This hand-on therapy helps you to get rid of chronic back pain, but it should be done by a professional otherwise condition may get severe.

When To See a Physiotherapist?

If you experience any these condition, then immediately visit the doctor:

• If pain travels to the arm or leg
• If you feel numbness or weakness in your arm or legs
• If your pain interfering with sleep or work
• If your body weight changes recently
• If you notice a difference in the bowel or bladder habits