The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine (backbone) are cushioned by small, round, flat discs. When these discs are damaged from an injury, normal wear and tear, or disease, they may bulge abnormally or break open.
A herniated disc occurs when small tears form in the wall of an injured disc. The injury often compresses a nerve root, causing pain.
A herniated disc occurs when small tears form in the wall of an injured disc. Damaged pieces of the nucleus (which can harden and break apart with age) push through the tears and out the disc wall. The herniated disc often compresses a nerve root, causing pain.
You should see a doctor if your neck or back pain travels to your arms or legs, or if the pain is accompanied by any sort of numbness or tingling. You should seek emergency medical attention if you have any sort of bladder or bowel dysfunction. You should also contact a doctor if you have loss of feeling in the inner thighs, back of legs, or area around rectum.
Test and Diagnosis:
Therapy may include:
Surgery:
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