A herniated disc in the back--also called a slipped disc--can cause radiating pain down the leg, making it difficult to function normally. A herniated disc may also cause pain in your back, chest, neck and arms. This injury occurs when a portion of the nucleus thrusts out through a tear in the annulus into the spinal canal, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Sciatica
Some individuals are unaware of their herniated disc, according to the Mayo Clinic. The problem may be apparent only on a spinal image. However, other individuals experience extreme symptoms, such as sciatica. Sciatica causes radiating pains or aching, sometimes accompanied by tingling and numbness that initiates in the buttocks and extends down the backside of your leg.
Neck, Shoulder, Chest or Arm Symptoms
The symptoms of a herniated disc are not specific to the buttock and leg. A herniated disc can also affect other parts of your body, causing pain, numbness or weakness in the lower back, neck, shoulder, arm or chest, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, more than one cause of a herniated disc exists, including a pinched nerve, which causes the herniated disc to pinch a nerve in the spine and leads to the pain in other parts of the body (the low back down to the leg and from the neck to the arm). Another cause of a herniated disc results from a degenerated disc, which leads to axial pain, originating from the disc space, according to Spine Health.com.
Increased Pain
Pain that increases with movements like sitting, coughing and sneezing may indicate a herniated disc. Back pain is often evident for one to three weeks, diminishing slowly. However, if you see no improvements within three weeks and are unable to resume usual activities after four to six weeks, call your doctor. In the meantime, certain self-care measures may help ease pain, such as over-the-counter pain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen and modified activities. Avoid improper reaching, bending and lifting, but do not cease activity altogether, as stiffness can occur, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, heat and ice treatments may help reduce discomfort.
