That being said, injury is the second most common risk factor for herniated discs. As we grow older, the moisture content decreases, causing the discs to become more brittle and prone to injury. When we are young, there is a high water content to our discs, making them supple and flexible. Like many things, a risk factor for lumbar disc herniation is merely the aging process. This can create a unique set of symptoms, as the pressure can induce nerve pain that affects the lower half of the body. Because the lumbar vertebrae are located in the lower back, a bulging (or slipped) disc at this location is directly beneath the root of the spinal nerve. These cushions (or discs) are made up of an inner gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus contained within a firm, rubbery outer shell called the annulus fibrosus.Īnytime this annulus fibrosus is compromised, the inner gel-like substance it contains can slip or bulge out through the surrounding shell. In between these vertebrae are discs that act as shock absorbers, taking pressure off the bones and allowing the back to maintain its strength and flexibility. Your backbone, or spine, is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae. Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation Form and Function of the Vertebrae Have you noticed any changes in your weight, or in your bowel or bladder habits?.Which activities do you find yourself avoiding due to pain?.Be sure to write down things you may forget later, such as how you feel after certain activities or if heat or ice worked better for your pain. We will have many questions about the nature of your pain and what triggers it. It is a good idea to write down any thoughts or observations about your pain before you see your doctor. Fortunately, most surgeries recommended for slipped discs are minimally invasive and involve only the protruding part of the disc. If the pain persists for longer than several weeks and you are experiencing progressive numbness or tingling, the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve and causing pain may need to be removed. If your symptoms worsen despite physical therapy and home treatment, your doctor may consider you a candidate for surgery. Massage can also relax the muscles and keep them supple. It also helps the patient learn how to perform daily activities in a way that mitigates pain and minimizes risk. Physical therapy is often recommended to relieve pain by stretching the muscles and relieving spinal pressure. Experiment with pillows and different positions, and take notes about what works best. Others find that lying flat with a pillow under their knees works best. Some people find they sleep better on their sides with a pillow between their legs (which helps spinal alignment). You may find it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position with a bulging disc. Activity will also benefit your mood and put the reigns for your health back in your own hands.

Light walking, swimming (or other hydrotherapy), and cycling or using an elliptical trainer are usually manageable for people with a slipped disc. Low-impact physical activity can help keep your muscles strong and flexible, which will help alleviate symptoms. Again, if you are using a compress or heating pad of any kind, always make sure that you use a barrier between your skin and whatever heat source you are using. Methods for applying heat include taking a warm bath, using a wrap that applies continuous low-level heat to the area, or by using a heating pad. Heat therapy may be best after those first 48 hours, as heat helps to relieve painful muscle spasms. Just make sure to use a barrier between your skin and the ice (like a paper towel or washcloth) to avoid injury. Ice also creates a numbing effect, so it helps soothe the initial pain, especially if it is intense. The application of ice during the first 48 hours after pain has started is helpful, as it reduces inflammation and alleviates muscle tension. Therefore, light movement with intermittent rest is the most effective way to manage a slipped disc at home. However, too much rest can actually create stiffness in the muscles and make things worse. Depending on the severity of symptoms, bed rest could be helpful for a short period of time. At-Home TherapyĪt-home treatment focuses on pain management and prevention. He or she may also recommend muscle relaxants. Your doctor can also prescribe corticosteroid injections near the spinal nerves. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil and Aleve can help to control pain. How Can You Treat a Bulging Disc? 5 Things to Know About Lumbar Disc Herniation 1.

Bulge disk xray