Back pain and other symptoms can be caused by many factors. A person can pull a muscle, have degenerative changes in the spine due to arthritis or stenosis, or may have a herniated disk. Since some of the symptoms of a herniated disk can mimic other conditions, the only definitive way to know is to have the proper tests and scans. However, there are some common symptoms that may indicate a herniated disk versus other conditions.
Pain
In the case of a herniated disk due to an injury, the pain may come on suddenly to the point you can tell your doctor exactly when the herniation occurred. If the herniation is due to a disease in the spine, then your pain may get worse at a gradual pace. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the pain associated with a herniated disk is "...characterized by a sharp, burning, stabbing pain radiating down the posterior or lateral aspect of the leg, to below the knee." This type of radiating pain can lead to a condition called sciatica. Depending on the location of the herniation, the pain may be worse when walking or standing and for others it is worse when sitting. The pain is usually worse on one side of the body, which can indicates in what direction the disk herniated. A doctor should also be able to palpate the lower back and find and area at the site of the herniation that is particularly sensitive.
Neurological Symptoms
If your herniated disk presses on the nerves that carry signals to your lower body, certain neurological symptoms may develop. This includes numbness, tingling and a pins and needles sensation in the legs, feet and toes. You may develop lower body weakness and diminished reflexes. If the herniated disk compresses the nerves that are involved in the digestive process, you may lose control of your bowels and bladder.
Other Symptoms
A herniated disk in the lower back can also cause muscle spasms when you move certain ways. The American Academy of Family Physicians states that if you have a herniated lumbar disk you may develop a tell tale posture and gait pattern. You may tend to hold your back rigid and straight to avoid re-injuring it or setting of a spasm. You may limp to take pressure off a painful leg or if the leg is weak and unable to support you. You may be unable to lift one leg or stand on your toes. Your doctor will perform a straight leg raise test as you lie on a table. If this movement causes lower back pain, then the test results indicate a herniated disk in your lower back.
