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Herniated Disc Injury in Indiana
Posted on August 19, 2011 by Ronald Todd
A herniated disc injury occurs when the disc becomes damaged. Some of the most common causes of a disc injury are:
- A fall or accident
- Repeated straining of the back
- A sudden strain on the back from lifting or twisting violently
When the disc is damaged, the soft rubbery center of the disc squeezes out through a weak point in the fibrous outer layer, causing a bulge that often presses on nearby nerves.
Symptoms of a herniated disc injury may begin suddenly or gradually. Sudden aching in the back or neck or being unable to straighten without extreme pain are signs of herniated disc problems. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in one or both arms is another sign of herniated discs.
Other common symptoms of a herniated disc injury include:
- Pain that Radiates to the Legs
- Pain that travels to the legs or feet may feel like a shooting pain or electric shock
- Numbness or Tingling
- Muscle Weakness
- Bladder Problems
- Problems with bladder or bowel function is a serious symptom of a herniated disc that should be treated and evaluated immediately
All of these symptoms may be caused by a herniated disc injury that is pressing against the spinal nerves.
A doctor can often diagnose a herniated disc injury by a physical examination that tests sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes.
The following diagnostic tests are often necessary to diagnose a herniated disc:
- x-rays
- CT scan
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- electromyography
- myelography
- discography
Treatment for A Herniated Disc Injury
Conservative treatment may relieve most cases of herniated disc pain and allow the body to heal the disc over time. Early treatment may include:
- Rest. By resting the back there is time for the body to reabsorb the herniated part of the disc and the heal
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Hot or cold packs, depending on your doctor's recommendation
- Traction, (putting bones or muscles under tension to keep them from moving or to relieve pressure on them)
- Massage
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections into the space near the herniated disc to control pain and inflammation
- As the pain lessens, you will most likely begin physical therapy to strengthen your back muscles and joints. Sometimes disk problems require surgery
The acute pain from a herniated disc should go away within a few weeks, but some pain may remain for a few months. Backaches may be common in those with a history of disc problems; therefore continual back strengthening and stretching exercises are recommended throughout life. Good biomechanics are also essential to protect the spine when lifting exercising.
Prevention includes:
- Using good posture and proper lifting techniques
- Avoid standing in one place for long periods of time
- Stretch often when sitting for long periods of time
- Use chairs with good back support
- Sleep on a firm mattress
- Sleep on your side not your stomach
- Stop and rest often while on long road trips
- Avoid returning too quickly to activity or exercise or you may risk aggravating your injury, which could lead to permanent damage
Risk of a herniated discs is decreased by maintain good core strength and strong, flexible muscles.
If you or a loved one has received a herniated disc injury as a result of another person's careless actions, contact us today. Visit us on-line at www.ronaldtoddlaw.com or call (317) 375-7718. There is no payment until after we get you the full compensation you deserve.
This entry was posted in Spinal Cord Injuries, Herniated Disc Injury, Ronald S. Todd, P.C., Spinal Cord Attorney, Spinal Cord Damage
