Everything you need to know about a herniated
A herniated disc is a problem that typically affects the lumbar spine and the spine. And basically, this situation is caused by the bulging of the intervertebral disc. Some patients who have a herniated disc may have signs such as back pain, numbness or a burning sensation. Others have no symptoms, that is, they are asymptomatic. Therefore, a medical follow-up is essential for the diagnosis of the problem.
Thinking about the importance that knowing more about this disease will have for the well-being of the patients, we prepared this content. Here, you will have access to the types of herniated discs, their main symptoms, treatments and much more. To check it out, just keep reading!
The main types of problem
Herniated disc manifests when the vertebral disc changes, for example, changing its original shape, ceasing to be oval and creating a shape similar to that of a drop. Overall, this problem can occur in 3 ways. The classification being:
1. Protruding herniated disc
This is the most common way in which the problem manifests itself. And, it occurs when the core of the region has a flare but remains unharmed. Due to the increase in size, the disc has its shape changed and can end up touching sensitive nerve regions, thus causing severe pain and even making it unable to perform some day-to-day activities.
2. Extruded herniated disc
Here, unlike the option mentioned above, there is deformation of the core. Therefore, it has a higher level of severity. Basically, the problem causes the vertebral disc to be torn, so that it is expelled, forming a kind of "drop". When the problem occurs, a liquid, allocated inside the disc, is expelled through the tear in the membrane.
3. Bulging disc / Sequestration
Being the most concerning classification, abducted herniated disc causes damage to the point of causing the disc to break. As a result of this action, this problem can cause severe inflammation and pain. In addition to these divisions, there are two other ways to classify disc herniations: considering the region pressed and the location where it occurs. See the segmentation for the first mentioned option below:
Posterolateral: Here, there is pressure on the nerves, which can cause loss of sensation, tingling sensation, etc.
Posterior: in this option, the forced site is the spinal cord. With this, the presence of symptoms in the legs and arms is common.
Now, check the classification for the region it affects:
Cervical disc herniation: affects the neck region;
Thoracic herniated disc: this type occurs in the mid-back region;
Lumbar disc herniation: Occurs in the lower back.
What are the causes of the problem?
There are several factors that can contribute to the appearance of a herniated disc. So, here's a list of the main ones:
An inappropriate posture;
Lifting weights with a high load;
Low water intake;
Excessive body weight;
Aging.
Remembering that these are just some of the factors that can contribute to the problem. So be aware and avoid these situations.
Main symptoms of herniated disc
Here are the main symptoms of a herniated disc:
Pain in the same place where the herniated disc;
Difficulties in performing simple routine tasks, such as getting down and lifting;
Tingling sensation;
Numbness in the region of the legs;
Muscle spasms;
Burning sensation.
It is important to keep in mind that medical follow-up is essential, as each patient may present a type of symptom. After all, the signs depend on several factors, for example, the region where the hernia occurs.
How is the herniated disc diagnosed?
First, it is necessary to go to a doctor to receive the diagnosis. And, to analyze the patient, he will observe the symptoms presented. However, in addition, the doctor can confirm the situation with the use of tests, such as MRI or computed tomography. Such procedures allow a complete view of the situation, as it is possible to verify the place where the problem presents itself, the type of hernia and its severity.
Another widely used tool is the X-ray. This is because it allows checking the integrity of the vertebrae and the alignment of the spine. Therefore, depending on the result, the doctor detects the problem and, after this action, requests the tests mentioned above, as they are more specific and allow a better assessment of the severity of the structure.
What are the ways to treat a herniated disc?
For the patient to have an efficient treatment, it is essential that they strictly follows all medical guidelines. The recommendations will depend on several factors, such as the location and severity.
However, for you to understand the possibilities, we have separated some of the most common methods for treating the problem. See below:
Use of medications, such as analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs;
Physiotherapy sessions with, stretching, strength, mobility, stability exercises;
Exercises such as pilates;
Manual therapy;
Tecar Therapy;
Magnetic Therapy;
Finally, as a last resort, there is also the possibility of surgery.
Generally, the symptoms usually disappear when the patient follows all the information from the specialists, between 1 and 3 months. But, of course, depending on the situation, the deadline may change. After all, each person responds to treatment differently.
Conclusion
A herniated disc is a problem that can cause severe pain. Therefore, avoiding factors, such as poor posture and exaggerated physical effort, that contribute to the onset of the disease is paramount.
Another important point is that, if you have symptoms, look for a specialist for diagnosis. Because, only from the result, you will have the necessary recommendations to treat the herniated disc.
Among the main methods to remedy the problem are physiotherapy sessions and Pilates. Undoubtedly, the help of these treatments will bring a number of benefits to your health and well-being.
So, if you want to schedule a consultation to better understand these two possibilities to treat the problem, just access our website right now!