Intervertebral disks are the cushions that sit between the spinal vertebrae. They are designed to absorb impact, and to allow the spine to flex and bend. However, in some cases these disks may become dislodged and either bulge or rupture completely. A herniated disk tends to cause specific symptoms that can help pinpoint the condition.
Pain
While a bulging disk does not always have noticeable symptoms, most herniated disks cause a specific type of pain. A herniated disk may cause pressure on the nerves as they exit the spinal column or may irritate the spinal cord itself. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the pain caused by a herniated disk tends to be described as burning and may travel away from the actual problem site. An example of this is sciatic pain. The location of the pain depends on where in the spine the herniated disk is located. For instance, an injury in the neck may cause shoulder and arm pain, while a lower back injury may cause pain in the buttocks or pain that shoots down the legs.
Impaired Sensation
Nerve or spinal cord irritation caused by a herniated disk also may cause problems with sensation. Affected people may feel anything from pins and needles to complete numbness around the level of their injury. According to MayoClinic.com, common sites for sensory problems after a herniated disk include the lower back, neck and chest. Sensation may be disrupted in one arm or one leg, depending on where in the spine the herniated disk is located.
Weakness
Nerve compression, which is possible after a herniated disc, may interrupt the motor signals coming from the brain and heading to the muscles. In this case, muscle weakness may be a symptom of a herniated disk. If the disk is pressing against the spinal cord, the muscles supplied by the nerves at that level tend to become weaker. Some people may experience weakness in their upper body, though their lower body may be unaffected. The AAOS reports that limb weakness caused by a herniated disk usually occurs on one side of the body.
Bowel and Bladder Incontinence
Depending on the level of injury and the degree of damage, a herniated disk may cause bowel and bladder dysfunction. Affected people may have difficulty urinating or may experience urinary incontinence. Bowel incontinence may also be an issue. A person may experience one or both of these conditions.
Warning Symptoms
MayoClinic.com warns that a sudden change in herniated disk symptoms may indicate that additional problems. Sudden weakness or loss of bowel and bladder function requires prompt medical attention, as they may be signs of spinal cord injury. Additionally, symptoms that are becoming gradually worse over time require prompt medical attention.
