A Herniated Disk

A Herniated Disk, also known as a Ruptured Disk, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disk bulges out through a tear in the outer, tougher layer.

Causes:

1. Age-related wear and tear

2. Trauma or injury

3. Heavy lifting or bending

4. Genetics

5. Smoking

Symptoms:

1. Back pain

2. Arm or leg pain

3. Numbness or tingling

4. Weakness

5. Muscle spasms

Treatment:

1. Conservative:

    - Rest

    - Physical therapy

    - Pain management

    - Lifestyle changes

2. Surgical:

    - Diskectomy (removing the herniated disk)

    - Spinal fusion (fusing adjacent vertebrae)

Types:

1. Lumbar herniated disk (lower back)

2. Cervical herniated disk (neck)

3. Thoracic herniated disk (upper back)

Complications:

1. Chronic pain

2. Sciatica

3. Muscle weakness

4. Loss of bladder or bowel control

5. Cauda equina syndrome (rare)

Consult a healthcare professional or spine specialist for proper evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.