A herniated disc is a common condition that affects many individuals worldwide. This condition occurs when the cushion-like discs that separate your vertebrae start to weaken and bulge outwards. A herniated disc can cause severe pain, limited movement and even disability in some cases. However, with proper knowledge of the symptoms of a herniated disc you can take steps to manage the condition more effectively. In this post, we will explore the various symptoms of a herniated disc and how you can seek help to manage it.
Pain in the Affected Area
One of the most common symptoms of a herniated disc is pain in the area affected. This pain could be constant or intermittent and may differ in intensity. The location of the pain depends on the location of the affected disc. In some cases, you may feel pain in your neck while in others you may feel it in your lower back.
Numbness and Tingling
If you have a herniated disc in the spinal cord you may experience numbness and tingling sensations in the affected area. This can be your legs, arms or fingers. In severe cases the numbness could be widespread and may even affect your bowel or bladder control.
Loss of Muscle Strength
A herniated disc can also cause a loss of muscle strength in the affected area. This can make it difficult for you to perform simple tasks such as walking or lifting objects. If you have a herniated disc in the neck region you may even experience difficulty in holding your head up.
Limited Range of Motion
Another symptom of a herniated disc is a limited range of motion. This occurs when the herniated disc compresses the nerves in the spine leading to restricted movement. This can make it difficult for you to turn your neck or bend your back.
Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction
In rare cases, a herniated disc can cause bowel or bladder dysfunction. This occurs due to the compression of the spinal cord leading to a disruption in the communication between the nerves and the brain. If you are experiencing bowel or bladder dysfunction seek immediate medical attention as it could be a medical emergency.
A herniated disc can significantly affect your quality of life, but with early diagnosis and proper management, you can lead a healthy and productive life. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek help from a medical professional, such as a physiotherapist or a chiropractic doctor. They will be able to diagnose the condition and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Remember, with proper management and care; you can manage your herniated disc, improve your mobility and live a pain-free life.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
