What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is a spinal condition where the outer part of the intervertebral disc tears, causing the central portion to bulge out.

What causes a herniated disc?

Factors like age-related degeneration, heavy lifting, and genetics.

Pain, numbness, weakness in arms or legs.

Through history, symptoms, physical exam, imaging tests.

Medication, therapy, surgery if necessary.

Herniated discs primarily affect the spine due to tears in the intervertebral discs, often leading to nerve compression and subsequent pain or weakness in different parts of the body. Factors such as age, lifestyle, and genetics can increase the likelihood of developing this condition, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and early detection.
The symptoms of a herniated disc are diverse and dependent on the specific location within the spine, with varying manifestations like arm or leg pain, muscle weakness, or changes in bowel/bladder function. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation combining patient history, physical exams, and imaging tests, guiding treatment strategies that can range from conservative approaches like medication and therapy to surgical interventions when deemed necessary for effective management.

What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc is a spinal condition where the outer part of the intervertebral disc tears, causing the central portion to bulge out.
What causes a herniated disc?
Factors like age-related degeneration, heavy lifting, and genetics.
What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?
Pain, numbness, weakness in arms or legs.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed?
Through history, symptoms, physical exam, imaging tests.
What are the treatment options for a herniated disc?
Medication, therapy, surgery if necessary.

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A herniated disc is a medical condition affecting the spine where the outer portion of the intervertebral disc tears, allowing the central portion to bulge out. The spinal column consists of 33 vertebrae, with 7 in the cervical spine, 12 in the thoracic spine, 5 in the lumbar spine, 5 fused vertebrae in the sacrum, and 4 fused vertebrae in the coccyx, cushioned by intervertebral discs to protect bones from movement impact.
Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spinal column but are more common in the lumbar spine, causing compression of nearby nerves leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. Factors like age-related degeneration, injury from lifting heavy objects, excess body weight, genetics, physically demanding occupations, or a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of a herniated disc.
Symptoms of a herniated disc vary based on the location, with cervical disc symptoms including neck, shoulder, or arm pain, thoracic disc symptoms causing mid-back pain or numbness, and lumbar disc symptoms resulting in persistent back pain worsened by movement, muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and changes in bowel or bladder function. Diagnosis involves history, symptoms, physical examination, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans, with treatment options ranging from medication and therapy to surgery if necessary.