It occurs as a result of the displacement of the discs in the spine. The discs are located between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers. Over time or with sudden movements, the disc may bulge out. This puts pressure on the nerves. Herniated Disc Those who experience it experience symptoms such as pain, numbness and loss of strength. Pain usually occurs in the waist and legs. Treatment can be provided by physical therapy or surgical intervention.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

The most common symptom is pain in the waist and legs. The pressure on the nerve roots caused by a slipped disc causes severe pain that spreads along the sciatic nerve. This pain can increase with movements such as sitting, bending forward, and lifting heavy objects. Herniated disc, It can cause numbness and tingling in the areas supplied by the affected nerves. This condition usually occurs in the legs and feet.

Nerve compression can affect muscle control. This can cause weakness in the legs, difficulty walking, or falls. Patients often have difficulty lifting the top of their foot (foot drop). Mobility can be limited. Movements, especially bending, turning, or stretching the waist, become painful and may be limited.

Nerve involvement can cause a decrease or loss of reflexes. This can be detected during neurological examinations by a doctor. In a rare but serious case, herniated disc It can increase pressure on the spinal cord and cause urinary or fecal incontinence. This is an emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms may vary depending on the degree of disc herniation and the severity of pressure on the nerve. If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may include physical therapy, medications and, in severe cases, surgery.

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

Heavy lifting, incorrect posture or constant repetitive movements put excessive load on the spine. This can cause damage to the discs and herniation over time. This is especially common in individuals who work in heavy jobs. Being inactive for long periods of time causes the muscles to weaken. Weak muscles cannot adequately support the spine, which can cause deformation in the discs. A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for people who work at a desk. As we age, the spinal discs lose their water content and elasticity. This process reduces the durability of the discs and can cause them to tear easily or slip outward. Excessive weight puts additional load on the spine and causes more pressure on the discs.

Excess fat, especially in the abdominal area, causes strain on the vertebrae in the lumbar region. In some people, the disc structure may be genetically weaker. This increases the tendency for herniation. In the family herniated disc This disease is more common in people with a history of this disease. Sudden traumas such as falls, collisions or traffic accidents cause tears in the spinal discs. Wrong sitting or standing habits for a long time strain the spine. This can cause the discs to remain under pressure and deform over time. Smoking can cause the discs to weaken by preventing them from receiving adequate nutrition. This increases the risk. It is important to exercise and maintain an ideal weight to protect against this condition. In addition, strengthening the waist and back muscles with regular physical activity reduces the risk by supporting the spine.

How is a Herniated Disc Treated?

Exercises performed under the supervision of a specialist strengthen the muscles and help support the spine. Manual therapy and hot and cold applications can also relieve pain. Pain and inflammation can be controlled by using muscle relaxants, painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. Light physical activities such as regular walking and swimming are recommended. Weight control and correct posture habits are also important.

Cortisone or epidural steroid injections are used to relieve pain caused by nerve root compression. Surgical intervention is preferred in patients with severe pain who have not received results from other treatments. A herniated disc is removed with a minimally invasive method. It is performed through a small incision and has a short recovery time. The disc is reduced in size using a laser and the pressure on the nerve is removed. Disc prosthesis is a method of removing the disc completely and replacing it with an artificial prosthesis.

Fusion surgery is the process of fixing two or more segments of the spine. In some cases, alternative methods can also support treatment. Acupuncture is a preferred method for relieving pain. Massage therapy is preferred for its muscle relaxant and pain-reducing effects. Yoga and Pilates support spinal health and increase flexibility. The treatment process should be planned specifically for the person and monitored by a specialist. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment herniated disc It can usually be controlled and the person's quality of life can be improved. However, in cases requiring surgery, timely intervention is critical to preventing nerve damage.