Herniated Disc Treatment in Panama
A herniated disc occurs when one of the intervertebral discs of the spine undergoes a degenerative process, deterioration or displacement that weakens its annulus fibrosus, creating a fissure through which the contents of the nucleus pulposus can leak outwards and compress the nerves.
SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
In many cases, a herniated disc is the result of putting more pressure on the vertebral discs than they are able to withstand. Herniated discs can occur in any of the 33 vertebrae of the spine; although they are generally more common in the lumbar region.
Depending on the location of the herniated disc (cervical, thoracic or lumbar), symptoms such as pain, weakness or numbness in the lower or upper limbs may appear; however, there are people who have small herniated discs that do not cause any discomfort.
Ways I can help you treat herniated discs
Herniated discs generate persistent symptoms, when this occurs, the best alternative is to visit the orthopedic doctor to get answers. In consultation, a thorough physical examination of the spine and the rest of the affected limbs is carried out; In addition, the patient’s clinical history is also evaluated to determine if there is a previous pathology that has contributed to the appearance of the herniated disc.
The main treatment methods for a herniated disc are:
Medications for herniated discs
Medications frequently prescribed in these cases include: anti-inflammatories (inflammation and pain control), nerve relievers, and muscle relaxants to control spasms.
Herniated Disc Therapy
Physiotherapy is a great ally for people with disc diseases. The physiotherapist, in addition to teaching them the correct postural form to carry out their daily activities; He will also explain techniques and exercises that you will need to apply regularly from now on if you want to strengthen your back muscles and have enough flexibility so that a herniated disc does not become a problem again.
Injections
Steroid medication injections into the back area offer temporary relief by greatly reducing inflammation of the herniated disc.
Herniated disc surgery
Surgery is the last option when all conservative methods have already been tried (unsuccessfully). The most commonly used surgical procedure in the treatment of a herniated disc is discectomy, with this operation it is possible to remove the herniated part of the disc, or failing that, the entire part of it.
Common Symptoms of Herniated Disc
As we have already mentioned, the symptoms are variable depending on the location within the spine and the nerve (or nerves) that the hernia may be pressing.
Pain
Lumbar hernias cause pain in the lower back (lumbar region); Sometimes, the pain can radiate to the lower limbs reaching the buttocks, thigh, calf and foot. With a cervical hernia, the patient will feel sharp pain in the neck, shoulders, and arm.
Tingling or numbness
Herniated discs often pinch the nerves that pass through the spinal canal, creating a numbness or tingling sensation that radiates to the part of the body to which the compressed nerves attach.
Muscle weakness
Like numbness and tingling, muscle weakness is associated with weakening of nerves due to the compression generated by the herniated disc.
What are the causes of herniated discs?
Herniated discs can derive from multiple factors, some of them being: poor posture, improper use of the back muscles when lifting heavy loads, repetitive strains, bone wear, traumatic events, among others.
Risk factors for a herniated disc
These are the factors that increase the chances of suffering a herniated disc:
Excess weight.
Physically demanding jobs that involve forced or repetitive movements with the back.
Genetic predisposition.
Tobacco and/or cigarette smoking.
Driving for many hours a day.
Sedentary lifestyle.
We remind you that many of the risk factors can be reduced with a change in your daily routine: Exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, avoid being overweight and maintain good posture to prevent herniated discs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs
What should I not do if I have a herniated disc?
People who suffer from herniated discs should take special care when performing certain exercises or physical activities. If you have a herniated disc, you have to stay away from weight or impact exercises (weights, push-ups, sit-ups, etc.), avoid sitting or standing for a long time, jogging, running, and even jumping.
How long can a hernia last without surgery?
The complications of a herniated disc can be very delicate if we consider that the spinal cord is involved in this condition. Leaving behind the chronic pain that a herniated disc can cause, there is also the possibility that it permanently affects the nerves.
Any injury, no matter how minimal it may seem, can worsen the condition of the herniated disc and generate a disabling situation. If your specialist has recommended surgery, we advise you not to postpone it for too long; Treating it properly can save you from a life full of ailments and annoying symptoms.
What are the risk factors for herniated discs?
These are the factors that increase the chances of suffering a herniated disc:
- Excess weight.
- Physically demanding jobs that involve forced or repetitive movements with the back.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Tobacco and/or cigarette smoking.
- Driving for many hours a day.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
We remind you that many of the risk factors can be reduced with a change in your daily routine: Exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, avoid being overweight and maintain good posture to prevent herniated discs.
SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
Contact Me
I invite you to schedule a medical appointment with me; In this way, I will be able to carefully evaluate your condition and offer you the best treatment or surgery alternatives to eradicate back pain and recover your general well-being.
