Disc Herniation Overview
The development of herniated discs is one of the most common spinal conditions that people suffer from. They occur when the spongy discs cushioning the vertebrae in the spine get damaged and bulge or even break open. These spongy discs work as shock absorbers and are responsible for keeping the spine flexible. However, when they rupture, their soft jelly like core bulge out of the tough exterior and starts pushing on the nerves that causes the patient causes chronic pain.
The lumbar region of the spine is the most common area for herniated disc. Cervical spine is also affected by this condition but the thoracic area is rarely if ever affected.
How Herniated Discs Occur
The main causes of herniated discs are:- Breaking down of discs due to age- As the body and the spine ages these discs lose their water content and become dry which makes them less flexible and more prone to rupturing
- Trauma or injury to the spine – Sometimes an injury to the spinal cord can cause the tough exterior of the discs to crack or tear which may force the inner sot core of the discs to bulge out.
Herniated Disc Surgery
Surgery is only considered as a treatment option when non-surgical treatment fail to provide any relief to the patient and his symptoms get worse with time. The most common spine surgeries for herniated discs are:- Microdecompression – This surgery is considered as an effective treatment for leg pain or sciatica- medically known as radiculopathy that is caused by lumbar herniated disc.
- Laminectomy – This surgery relieves the pressure on the nerves and spinal canal by enlarging the spinal canal which is done by removing the lamina.
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