Herniation of a lumbar disc can happen to anyone but is most common in people between 35 and 45, especially those who do repetitive work or leisure activities or those who are frequently in the driver's seat. As we age, the discs that act as cushions between the bones in our spine begin to wear. Sometimes, either due to injury or overuse, a disc may be damaged and the resulting bulge of the disc material--called herniation--often puts pressure on a nearby nerve. Though the bulge itself occasionally causes localized pain, the pressure on this nerve causes the most problems for people as the pain radiates into other parts of the body.
Sciatica or Radiculopathy
A slipped disc can occur anywhere along the spine, but by far the most common rupture is in the lower lumbar area. The most common symptom of a herniated disc is pain that radiates from the buttock down the back of the leg and into the calf. This pain, generally known as sciatica, is also called radiculopathy.
You may also notice weakness in the muscles of your legs and feet. It may be most noticeable when you try to lift up your big toe, or when you try to stand on your toes. You may also experience numbness or tingling in the lower part of your leg, or even into the sole of your foot.
If your leg pain travels more down the front of your thigh and your shin, you may have a pinched nerve in the upper part of your lumbar spine.
Other Symptoms of a Ruptured Lumbar Disc
Pain from a ruptured disc often gets worse with activity and better with rest, according to the Laser Spine Institute. Most people with this kind of pain find they can't sit for very long, though, and have to change positions frequently. Bending over, coughing or sneezing is also likely to cause more pain. You may also find that your affected leg reacts poorly to heat or cold and your reflexes may not be as active.
If your weakness occurs in both of your legs and you lose control of your bowels or bladder, seek immediate medical help, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. These symptoms may mean you have cauda equina syndrome, a serious medical condition.
Diagnosing a Herniated Lumbar Disc
Not all ruptured discs cause problems, so MRIs, CT scans and other tests are not the primary tools for diagnosing or treating a herniated disc. If you experience pain that radiates down your leg and limits your activities, contact your doctor. You should get a full medical exam that includes an evaluation of your reflexes, muscle strength and the pain. An MRI is then usually done to pinpoint the area of the lumbar spine where the disc is causing problems.
Once a diagnosis is made and the specific site of the pinched nerve is identified, treatment options can be discussed. Not all herniated discs require surgery; most can be treated conservatively.
