DISC PROBLEMS

                                                

Problems with the discs of the back are common. Intervertebral discs are spongy cushions found between the bones of the spine (vertebrae), part of which can change position and touch nerves, causing pain. Longer term wear and tear can also cause back pain.

Symptoms of disc problems

The symptoms of a damaged disc can vary according to its location and severity. However, the general symptoms are

• Back pain
• Pain radiating down the legs
• Worsening pain associated with bending over or sitting down for a long time
• Worsening pain associated with activities like coughing or sneezing
• Numbness or pins-and-needles in an arm or leg.

Risk factors for disc problems

 Risk factors of disc problems may include:

• Obesity
• Poor muscle tone
• Lack of regular exercise
• Cigarette smoking
• Advancing age
• Poor posture
• Incorrect lifting techniques.

Types of disc problems
Common disc-related problems include degenerative disc disease, ruptured (or ‘slipped’) disc and sciatica (nerve pain).

Diagnosis of disc problems
Diagnosis of disc problems involves:

• Taking a medical history
• A physical examination.

Other investigations are carried out if surgery may be required.

Treatment for disc problems
The majority of disc problems will resolve regardless of treatment. Bed rest is occasionally best for initial management of severe sciatica, but most people can keep active with some restrictions according to the level of pain. Good pain control and allowing the person to move is often a good approach.

Some common treatments include:

• Heat treatment
• Regular massage
• An exercise program designed to improve strength and flexibility
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroids
• Pain-relieving medication
• An injection of anti-inflammatory steroids into the region of the disc
• Uncommonly, in severe cases of ruptured disc, an operation may be needed to trim the protruding bulge (laminectomy)
• Also uncommonly, in severe cases of degenerative disc disease, an operation may be needed to remove the disc and fuse together the two vertebrae on either side.

Other causes of back pain

There are many other causes of back pain, so see your doctor if pain is strong. Important other reasons for back pain include:

• Muscular pain – probably even more common than disc rupture. It is usually localised to the back, without the pain spreading to the legs and very likely to fix itself without specific treatment
• Fracture – especially in elderly people, or those with osteoporosis
• Malignancy – some cancers can present with back pain. See your doctor if you have strong pain, night pain, have experienced weight loss or any other symptoms you are worried about.

Where to get help

Our hospital  , INDO AMERICAN HOSPITAL , VAIKOM.