Herniated Disc - What Now?
As flexible as your spine is - considering it is a chain of bones linked together - it is still just that, bones. And in between those bones little “sponges” known as discs act as shock absorbers for your spine. When one of those cheese-like texture discs is damaged due to wear and tear or injury, they bulge or break open, allowing the fluid inside to leak out. This is known as a herniated disc. If you are one of the millions coping with this condition, or portray habits that put you at risk for a herniated disc, it will be to your benefit to read on.
Back pain can sometimes be hard to diagnose because of the endless possibilities, but to distinguish something like muscle soreness from an actual issue that needs medical attention, ask yourself these questions:
1) Are you experiencing numbness and weakness in any of your limbs, particularly your legs?
2) Have you lost control of your bladder or bowel movements?
These are two distinct symptoms of a herniated disc, and you should seek medical attention immediately if your answer is yes to one or both of these questions. But do not be fooled! Unfortunately – and fortunately - depending how you look at it, a herniated disc may not put you in pain at all. I say unfortunately because then you have no way of knowing your disc is bulging, which can lead to worse complications if not treated, and fortunately because you are not in pain. It’s a catch 22 sword I guess.
As I said earlier, a herniated disc can develop over time, due to wear and tear, or old age as they call it. Be it as it may, the habits you form over your lifetime can ultimately be the determining factor of the health of your spine in your future, or for some, the present. And speaking of habits – or routine - it is important to note that your occupation can be a huge contributing factor to a herniated disc. If your job requires sitting at a desk or in a car for a long period of time you are more susceptible to getting a herniated disc than someone who is on their feet for the better half of the day.
As the double-edged sword goes, staying active is the best way to stay healthy.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
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