The discs are protective shock-absorbing pads between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). It is composed of a jelly like central portion known as nucleus and a fibrous outer covering known as annulus.
In cases of slipped disc, a disc does not actually slip but the inner softer part of the disc (the nucleus pulposus) bulges out through a weakness in the outer part of the disc. The condition is also known as herniated disc, ruptured disc, or prolapsed disc.
According to the severity, the condition is categorized as:
- Disc Degeneration
- Protrusion
- Extrusion
- Sequestration
Causes :
The most common causes are:
- Prolonged faulty spinal posture
- Repetitive stress due to occupation
- Sudden unguarded movement of spine
- Natural processes of aging
- Trauma
Symptoms :
Lumbar Disc Herniation may cause Lower Back Pain. The bulged disc may irritate and compress the exiting nerve roots producing symptoms like Sciatica – pain and / or tingling-numbness in legs. The exact site and type of symptoms depends upon the nerve affected. The patients may develop Spinal List or Shift, a mechanism adapted naturally to relieve nerve compression. More severe compression may lead to weakness of the muscles supplied by that nerve.
In case of Cervical Disc Prolapse, the patients may complain of Neck Pain which may radiate to the upper extremities with or without sensations resembling“pins and needles” in hand.
