A herniated disc is a common condition that may happen to any disc in the spine, but typically occurs in the lower back. Also known as a ruptured disc, disc herniation and bulges are one of the biggest factors behind lower back pain, sciatica, and leg pain. Around 60-80% of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. If you’re looking for treatment for disc herniation in Clermont, FL, be assured that fortunately, even though this can be a very painful condition to live with, the majority of people recover fairly quickly with relatively noninvasive treatments.
How Disc Herniation and Bulges Happen
Our spine is composed of 24 vertebrae connected together to protect the spinal cord. Between each vertebrae is a flat, round, flexible disc containing a jelly-like nucleus. When a disc herniates, the jelly-like nucleus bulges against its tough, flexible outer ring. This puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots that results in pain. If it pushes all the way through, the disc material also releases chemical irritants that can irritate nerve roots and result in sciatica.
Most herniated discs happen from natural wear-and tear that we put on our bodies over time. Just like a couch cushion that has been sat on for too long, the disc will be worn down in a process called disc degeneration. Young adults and children have healthy, springy discs with a lot of water. The amount of water in these discs goes down as you age and the discs become less flexible. As the discs begin to shrink, the amount of space between each vertebrae decreases and makes the discs more prone to bulging. Sometimes, discs may herniate in younger people due to heavy manual labor or traumatic events like athletic accidents or falls.
Risk Factors For Herniated Discs
While anybody can experience a traumatic event resulting in a herniated disc, there are certain factors that can make you more likely to suffer from a herniated disc. Some (but not all) of these factors are listed below.
- Improper lifting: Straining your back muscles rather than using the force of your legs when lifting heavy objects can result in a herniated disc. Avoid twisting while lifting heavy objects, as it can also affect your back. It’s important to always lift with your legs and not your back.
- Being overweight: The additional weight carried around by the body stresses the discs in your lower back
- Being male: Men between the ages of 20 and 50 are more likely to get a herniated disc than females
- Sedentary lifestyle: Remaining active is key to preventing a range of medical conditions, and herniated discs are no exception.
- Repetitive activities that put pressure on your spine: If you have a physically demanding job, such as construction, which demands constant pulling, lifting, twisting, or bending, you may wear the discs in your back out faster. It’s essential to use safe lifting and movement techniques to help protect your back.
- Frequent driving: Remaining seated for long period of time along with the vibration from the car engine can strain your discs and spine
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce the supply of oxygen to your spine and cause your discs to degenerate faster
Contact Us Today
Disc herniation and bulges are a common but fortunately treatable condition. If you’re looking for treatment for disc herniation in Clermont, FL, call Taylor-Made Health & Wellness to schedule an appointment today.
