Herniated Disk Treatment Information
- By:Juliet Cohen
Discal hernia also ruptured disc. Hernies discs are the most common in the lower spine (lumbar). The spinal disc is a soft cushion that sits between the vertebrae of the spine. The spinal disc becomes stiffer with age. In a young person, the disc is soft and elastic, but like so many other structures in the body, the disk gradually loses its elasticity and is more susceptible to injury. A herniated disk is more likely to occur among people aged between 20 and 50, with a greater frequency among men. Those whose occupations require a lot of lifting heavy loads and those who are obese are at greater risk.
In children and young adults, disks have high water content. As people age, the water content in the disks decreases and the disks become less flexible. The most common symptom of a herniated disk is lower back pain following a fall, injury to the back, or after lifting a heavy object. Sciatica is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, which follows this path on either side of the body. Other symptoms of a herniated disk can include a tingling or numb sensation in a leg or loss of bladder or bowel control. Smoking tobacco increases the risk of disk herniation because it decreases oxygen levels in the blood, depriving your body tissues of vital nutrients.
Diabetes can reduce oxygen levels in the blood, which makes spinal discs more prone to hernia and disease. Excess body weight causes additional stress on the discs in the lower back. Those who do physically demanding work, such as agriculture, the reinforcement of concrete, lumber, trucking and warehousing to find higher rates of herniated disks. Nonsurgical treatment is effective in treating the symptoms of herniated disks in more than 90% of patients. Microsurgical techniques require smaller incisions and only a local anesthetic. An exercise program that is right for you. Avoid smoking to preserve your overall health.
Herniated Disk Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Losing weight can help, too.
2. Muscle relaxers is also recommeded.
3. Anti-inflammatory medications are also helpful.
4. Cold compresses or ice can also be applied several times.
5. Avoid smoking to preserve your overall health.
6. Rest and over-the-counter pain relievers may be all that is needed.
7. Regular exercise, including exercises that strengthen the abdominal muscles.About the author:
Juliet Cohen writes article for Home Remedies. She also writes articles for Makeup and Skin Care.