What is
a Disc Prolapse?
The spinal column consists of multiple blocks of bones called
vertebral bodies. Between the vertebral bodies lies the disc.
These discs are like rubber washers and allow movement of the
spinal column. The disc contains jelly-like material surrounded by
a fibrous ring. When the fibrous ring becomes diseased due to
injury or any other condition then the jelly like substance is
pushed out or prolapses into the spinal canal and causes pressure
on the spinal cord and its accompanying nerve roots. This
condition is called disc prolapse.
What are the symptoms?
Rupture of the disc or prolapse as it is usually called, can press
on the spinal cord and its nerve roots leading to pain, numbness
and weakness in either or both the arms and legs depending on
where the prolapse occurs. If the prolapse is severe it can lead
to loss of function including weakness of either or both limbs and
may also affect the control of bowel and urinary bladder.
How is it diagnosed?
Usually the symptoms of a patient who presents with back and leg
pain, or neck and arm pain with associated weakness are enough to
help the doctor identify the problem. However, other diseases of
the spine like infection, tumour and fracture can also present
with similar symptoms. To rule out other conditions, various blood
tests, X-rays, CT scan or MRI scans are advised. Once the
diagnosis is confirmed the appropriate treatment can then be
started.
What is the treatment?
Almost 90% of patients who get disc prolapse will resolve with
medical treatment. This includes rest, pain relief and
physiotherapy. Rest is advised for only 3-4 days after which
assisted physiotherapy is required. If the symptoms do not resolve
after 6 weeks of treatment or if any nerve or spinal cord related
symptoms increase like numbness, weakness or loss of bowel and
bladder control, then immediate surgery may be required.
How can it be prevented?
Regular care of the back with toning up exercises is the most
important factor that helps to prevent further episodes of back
pain. The other factors are to learn how to avoid inadvertent
strains to the back. Techniques for sitting, driving long
distances and lifting weights must be learnt.
How should things be lifted?
Do’s:
* Hold heavy objects close to your body rather than away from it.
* The feet must be about shoulder-width apart. A wide, solid base
of support is important. Holding the feet too close together will
be unstable; too far apart will make movement difficult.
* Legs must be bent at the knees while lifting weights from floor
level and the back must be kept straight. The stomach muscles must
be pulled in. This will support the back in a good lifting
position and will help prevent excessive force on the spine.
* Push up with the legs. The legs are much stronger than the back
muscles.
* If an object is too heavy, or awkward in shape get someone to
help you lift.
Don'ts:
* Avoid sudden and awkward movements while holding something
heavy.
* Never bend your back to pick something up
* Don't twist or bend. Face in the direction you are walking.
Discs
between the vertebrae of the spine dry out and stiffen, as a
result of inactivity
Lumbar Disc Herniation
Spinal Cord in the
lower back (Lumbar Spine)
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