Back Injury : Disc Disease
This refers to a condition also known as sciatica where a prolapse of a disc results in nerve compression. This condition is also referred to as a herniated ("slipped") disc.
The spinal column consists of vertebra separated by more flexible, fibrous tissue known as discs. Any disruption, prolapse, or rupture of a disc can result in compression on a nearby exiting nerve root. Interference with a nerve root causes the classic, painful symptoms of this problem. Disc disease often occurs in the lower back (lumbar), where compression is on the sciatic nerve (which travels down the leg, supplying sensation and motor function below the knee).
Common symptoms include: back pain that radiates down ONE leg [often to the foot], numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg. The clinical presentation is dependent on the spinal level [and degree] of the disc prolapse. It is important to realize that a prolapsed disc usually causes symptoms to appear in ONE leg only.
SELF HELP MEASURES
* Aspirin or anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen) will help reduce discomfort.
* Bedrest on a firm mattress, in a position of comfort.
* Moist heat to the back can help alleviate symptoms if the injury is more than 24 hours old. Application of heat to an acute injury can increase swelling and pain. Use ice for the first 24 hours.
Any persistence or worsening of symptoms requires IMMEDIATE medical evaluation. Patients with symptoms of disc disease should have a physical examination. Spine x-rays should be taken to rule out a fracture in cases where symptoms were precipitated by injury. Special studies, using magnetic resonance scanning, can clearly show the discs, nerves and their relationship, not possible in the past with conventional x-rays.
Recovery is in the range of 4-6 weeks. The Orthopaedic Surgeon is the expert in the management of disc disease.
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