Singapore Physiotherapy for slipped disc (or herniated disc), a form of back pain and neck pain
Medical Conditions
Back and Neck pain is extremely complex. And dome of the medical term that are used by health professionals. It can often be confusing.
Amongst some of the more common conditions are:
Understanding Slipped Disc
With adult having some 80% chance of getting back pain at some point in their
lives, who hasn't complained of an aching back? How many people have
experienced the sudden pain of "throwing one's back out?"
In most instances, back pain is simply the result of unusual exertion,
fatigue or a twist or sharp movement, but occasionally, there has been an
injury to the spine and medical attention is required. A slipped disc is one
such common injury to the spine. It can be extremely painful, and may damage
surrounding muscle and nerve systems. If pain is very severe, if it persists
or worsens when you lie down, if it travels down your leg or if numbness
sets in, then a doctor should be consulted.
Despite the common name - "slipped disc", it doesn't really "slips" out, rather the gel-like material in the centre of the disc bulges into the spinal canal. A slipped disc is also known as a pro-lapsed intervertebral disc (PID), herniated or ruptured disc.
A disc is a small mass of elastic, gristle-like tissue. Located between each vertebra in the spinal column, discs act as shock absorbers for the spinal bones. Thick ligaments attached to the vertebrae hold the pulpy disc material in place.
Why do disks herniate?
Occasionally, a single excessive strain may cause a slipped disc.
However, disc material degenerates naturally as we age, and the ligaments
that hold it in place begin to weaken. As this degeneration progresses, a
relatively minor strain or twisting movement can cause a disc to pop out of
place.
Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to disc problems, and as a consequence may suffer herniations at several places along the spine.
What are the symptoms of a slipped disc?
Extreme, sudden pain is usually the first symptom. Since most herniations involve the
bottom two discs in the spinal column, the pain usually begins in the lower
back. The bulging disc in this location exerts pressure on the sciatic
nerve, and sharp pain may follow that nerve all the way down the leg and
into the foot. Pressure on this nerve may eventually cause numbness or a
"pins and needles" sensation. Over time, the surrounding muscles can weaken
and shrink in size.
Discs can also rupture at higher levels in the spine causing pain and weakness in the neck, shoulders and arms.
Even if the initial pain subsides, it is important that the condition be diagnosed and treated in order to prevent further damage.
>>What treatment options are available?
References
Back2Sports, a division of Core Concepts,
is the Official Physiotherapist for
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