Between each vertebra in the spine is a disc that will bulge out when irritated. This happens with long-term strain on the disc caused by various types of work, such as computer processing and frequent lifting of heavy objects. The pain associated with a herniated disc can be severe, and the effects of nerve compression can cause various symptoms. See your doctor if you have symptoms of a herniated disc.
Numbness and Tingling
Tingling and numbness in the arms and feet are caused by pressure on nerve routes that have been impeded. There may be a tingling sensation or numbness involved when the pressure has become too great to communicate signals from the brain to the nerve and back to the brain. The communication process is interrupted. Medical intervention such as surgery or medication that relieves the inflammation of the bulging disk and nerves should be considered in consultation with your physician.
Pain
Pain is caused by pressure on the nerves involved in the location of the bulging herniated disc. Pressure built up in the nerves causes irritation and inflammation around the nerve into spinal tissues and joints. The pain can be severe. Anti-inflammatory medications and medical therapy for the back should be started. A common medication for this pain is Celebrex, which also is used in the treatment of arthritis. Celebrex (generically celecoxib) is an NSAID or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Other NSAIDs that may help include ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen sodium (Naprosyn or Aleve). Regular analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help the pain a bit but are not anti-inflammatory drugs.
Balance and Gait
Balance and gait disturbances involved in walking are a natural response to nerve compression and nerve irritation. Everything in the body connects at some point to a nerve and communicator to send a signal back to the brain. If the signals are interrupted, including the signal that tells your body how to walk and keep balance, then these skills will be interrupted as well.
