Understanding the Spine

The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae, with discs in between that act as cushions or shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like center.

What Happens in Lumbar Disc Herniation?

When a disc herniates in the lumbar region, the outer layer develops a crack or tear, allowing some of the soft center to push out. This bulging or “leaking” material can press on nearby nerve roots, resulting in a variety of symptoms.

Common Symptoms

• Lower back pain: Ranging from a dull ache to sharp, severe pain.
• Sciatica: Pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating down one leg.
• Leg pain: Often more severe than the back pain and felt in the calf or thigh.
• Difficulty moving: Due to pain, weakness, or stiffness.
• Weakness: Severe nerve compression may cause muscle weakness (e.g., foot drop).
• Bladder or Bowel Incontinence: Rare but an emergency when present.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

• Rest and Activity Modification: Short-term rest and gradual resumption of activities, avoiding aggravating movements.
• Medications: NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), muscle relaxants, oral steroids, or prescription pain medications.
• Physiotherapy: A structured program with stretching, core strengthening, and techniques such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections for temporary relief.
• Chiropractic Care: Adjustments or manual therapies by licensed practitioners (with caution in severe cases).

Surgical Treatments

Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases or when conservative treatments fail. Surgical options include:

• Microdiscectomy: Removal of the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve.
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (lamina) to create more space for the nerve.
• Disc Replacement or Fusion: Either replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one or fusing vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.

Alternative and Complementary Treatments

• Acupuncture: Inserting thin needles into specific points for pain relief.
• Yoga and Pilates: Gentle exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and posture.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps manage chronic pain’s psychological aspects.

Lifestyle and Preventive Measures

• Weight Management: Reducing strain on the lumbar spine.
• Regular Exercise: Strengthening core muscles and maintaining flexibility.
• Proper Body Mechanics: Learning correct techniques for lifting, bending, and moving.