Ruptured Disc And Other Back Pain Problems

Home > Research > Ruptured Disc > Ruptured Disc And Other Back Pain Problems

The bones of the spine, called vertebra, are cushioned by small, fluid filled discs.  They are round and flat with a tough outer shell surrounding a jelly-like center.  They are designed by nature to act as shock absorbers for the spinal bones, keeping the spine flexible and preventing injury to the delicate spinal cord.  Sometimes these discs may be damaged by an injury, or the normal wear and tear associated with aging.  When that happens, they may bulge or even rupture, resulting in a ruptured or herniated disc.

Ruptured discs may not always cause pain, depending on their location and how much excess pressure is applied to spinal nerve endings.   Sometimes, the byproduct of a ruptured disc may be numbness in the affected area.  Many people who have ruptured discs are not aware of it at first because there is no accompanying pain or discomfort.  Disc problems may be discovered through X-rays for completely unrelated issues.

Symptoms of a ruptured disc are numerous, from outright pain, to numbness, to a tingling or pins-and-needles sensation, all of which may be felt not only in the back, but arms, legs, and buttocks.  You may also have a feeling of weakness in the leg muscles.

Ruptured discs may heal on their own over a period of a month or so, however many people seek treatment to not only relieve the pain, but to prevent further injury by learning how to properly take care of the back through exercise, therapy, and other avenues of care.

Surgery for a ruptured disc is usually a last resort, after more conservative efforts have failed.  Non-surgical treatment is always preferable, utilizing a combination of short term bed rest with a gradual increase in activity, over the counter medication to control the level of pain, and exercise designed to strengthen the muscles of the back.

Only about 10% of ruptured disc patients end up requiring surgery, usually cases where the pain has become disabling or the nerve damage is considerable.

Our back pain professionals are waiting to work with you on your disc or other back pain related problems.  Click here to get connected to a provider in your area.