What Causes a Herniated Disc and How Can It Be Treated?

A herniated disc, often referred to as a ruptured or slipped disc, is a condition where the soft inner part of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in its tough outer layer. This can lead to various symptoms, depending on the disc’s location and the nerves it affects.

Primarily, herniated discs manifest in the lower back or lumbar spine area, although they can also be found in the neck or cervical spine. Such a condition in the lumbar region may lead to pain radiating through the buttock and down the leg due to the irritation of the sciatic nerve. Interestingly, as noted by HSS spine surgeon James E. Dowdell III, MD, the pain is more likely to affect the buttocks, legs, and feet than the actual back. When this occurs in the mid-back, it is a rarer scenario but can pose more significant challenges due to the limited space in that part of the spine.

The causes of disc herniation can be attributed to aging processes and sudden injuries, such as from heavy lifting or falling. The disc’s outer layer weakens over time, making it more susceptible to rupturing and allowing the inner material to seep out.

Surprisingly, most individuals with a herniated disc experience natural relief over time. About 90% of herniated disc patients find that their pain dissipates on its own within six months. However, for those seeking more immediate relief or facing severe symptoms, there are various treatments available. These range from weight loss programs and activity modification to physical therapy. In more severe cases, pain medications or epidural steroid injections might be prescribed. Surgery is typically considered a last-resort option after other treatments have been exhausted.

Key symptoms of a herniated disc include leg pain, weakness, numbness, and in more severe cases, cauda equina syndrome or low back pain. Accurate diagnosis and understanding the severity of the symptoms are crucial for recommending the appropriate treatment pathway.

To better understand herniated discs and the potential treatment options, you can explore more detailed information at Harvard Health, HSS, and other listed sources.