Navigating Health

Archive for May 17th, 2010

The inter-vertebral discs sit between the bones of the back. These discs contains of a tough, fibrous ring that holds the bones together and a spongy center that acts as a shock absorber. A prolapsed disc, which is also known as a slipped or herniated disc, occurs, when the fibrous ring splits and some of the spongy center is force out this in turn presses on the nerves leaving the spine, thereby causing pain. A slipped disc very often lead to a common condition called sciatica-sever nerve pain felt in the buttocks and legs. The symptoms of a slipped disc may appear to develop suddenly but this condition arises from long term changes in the discs caused largely by poor posture and exercise habits. The normally plump and resilient discs can dry out and become brittle as a result of poor circulation in the spine and strain from long periods spent sitting.

The affected discs then become vulnerable to damage, often from relatively minor strains such as bending to pick up something. To check for slipped disc, your doctor will consider your medical history and make a through examination. A classic sign is that you experience pain when you are lying down and try to lift one leg straight up in the air. ACT or MRI scan of your back can identify the location of the slipped disc. Most slipped or prolapsed discs will settle after a few weeks of rest and some gentle activity. It is important to keep comfortable and to have adequate pain relief. Many people find that treatment by a physiotherapist is helpful. It may be necessary to have an operation to remove the affected disc and release the pressure on the nerves.