The American Chiropractic Association estimates that as much as 80 percent of the population will experience back problems at some point in their lives. A herniated disk occurs when the soft, gel-like inner layer of the spine, known as the nucleus, pushes out through a tear in the outer layer of the spine into the spinal canal. A herniated disk can often cause painful symptoms that can make even everyday tasks become unbearable, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms
It is possible to have a herniated disk and not know it. A person with a herniated disk in the lower back may experience weakness in one leg, numbness or tingling in the buttock or one leg, loss of bladder or bowel control or a burning pain centered in the neck. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that if a disk in the neck is herniated, people may experience weakness in one arm, tingling or numbness in an arm, or burning pain in the neck, arm or shoulders.
Causes
The disks in children and young adults have a high water content, allowing them to flex easily. As people age, the water content begins to diminish, making the disks less flexible and causing the space between the vertebrae to get narrower, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Risk Factors
Many conditions can weaken vertebral disks. Improperly lifting heavy objects can often strain the disks. Smoking also increases the chances of weakening disks. Excessive body weight can cause added stress on the disks, especially in the lower back. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons warns that repetitive strenuous activities may also cause the disks to weaken over time.
Complications
If a disk herniation goes untreated, people may experience long-term complications. Chronic back pain can be a painful and expensive complication of a herniated disk. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke warns that Americans spend a minimum of $50 billion each year on low back pain.
Treatment
Many physicians choose to treat with rest and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications as well as exercises to strengthen the back, according to American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. People with severe back pain should avoid activities that may aggravate symptoms such as bending, lifting, improper reaching and sitting for extended periods. People can help relieve inflammation by alternating between heat and cold compresses. MayoClinic.com says that in approximately 10 percent of people, herniated disks eventually require surgical repair.
