A herniated disc occurs when part of your spinal disc -- the material between your vertebrae, or spinal bones -- ruptures through its protective covering and protrudes into your spinal canal. The displaced disc material may press on your spinal nerves, which can cause discomfort and other sensations in your leg or arm. Certain supplements, such as zinc, may be helpful in treating your disc herniation. However, you should always review supplement-related topics with your doctor before using these natural substances.
About Herniated Discs
Certain risk factors may increase your likelihood of experiencing a disc herniation, including poor form when lifting heavy objects, long-term cigarette smoking, obesity or excessive body weight, sudden pressure on your discs and participation in strenuous activities that involve repetitious movements. Herniated disks are more common in young and middle-aged adults, due to the greater volume of water in the discs of these individuals. Pain, numbness and weakness are among the most common symptoms associated with this health problem.
About Zinc
Zinc, an essential mineral and a constituent of over 300 enzymes, is involved in many aspects of cellular function and metabolism. Though available in supplement form, zinc may be found in significant amounts in oysters, meat, eggs, seafood, black-eyed peas, tofu and wheat germ. The recommended daily allowance for zinc is 11 mg for adult males and 8 mg for adult females, reports the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements. Zinc deficiencies are relatively common in people who live in developing nations.
Zinc Actions and Uses
Zinc may be helpful in repairing the tissue damage associated with disc herniation. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," zinc is important for tissue repair and is essential for both protein synthesis and formation of collagen -- a type of connective tissue. Balch recommends a dosage of 50 mg per day for this purpose. Always review proper dosage with your doctor before taking zinc supplements. More scientific research evidence examining zinc's ability to treat this problem may be required.
Disclaimer
A herniated disc is a relatively common cause of low back pain, and most cases of low back pain are caused by benign factors. In some cases, however, your low back pain may be caused by serious underlying health problems, such as a spinal cord tumor or infection. If you develop the characteristic signs and symptoms of a herniated disc, report to your physician as soon as possible to be properly assessed and treated. Your doctor can counsel you on the advantages and disadvantages of using supplements, such as zinc, to help resolve your problem.
References
- American Association of Neurological Surgeons
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Herniated Disk
- National Institutes of Health: Zinc
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
