Herniated disc

In the case of a herniated disc, the intervertebral tissue presses on the nerves in the area of the spine and can thus trigger pain or muscle tension. These symptoms are mainly felt in the area of the lumbar vertebrae, cervical vertebrae or in the spinal cord.

Causes
Symptoms
Diagnosis and treatment

Causes


The causes of a slipped disc can be of various kinds. Factors that favour a slipped disc include:

  • Increasing age
  • Lack of exercise
  • Excess weight
  • Poor posture
  • Sports that put a lot of strain on the spine
  • Heavy lifting

Sections of the spine

Injuries and diseases of the intervertebral discs

Herniated disc in the thoracic spine
Slipped disc in the cervical spine – cervical disc herniation
Herniated disc in the lumbar spine
Intervertebral disc prosthesis | Artificial intervertebral disc

Symptoms


Symptoms can vary in severity from case to case and are experienced by patients in a personal way. The most common symptoms include back pain, which can extend into the buttocks as well as the legs. Pain can also extend into the neck and arms. Those affected also often report a feeling of tingling or numbness in the extremities. In severe cases, paralysis and bowel and bladder dysfunction can occur - if these symptoms occur, action should be taken quickly. 

Diagnosis and treatment


Neurological tests and examinations of the spine can be used to diagnose a herniated disc. Thanks to radiological procedures (magnetic resonance imaging or computer tomography), the exact location and extent can be determined.

Treatment is determined according to the individual case and the severity of the incident. For example, conservative therapy using painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs together with physiotherapy can already ensure an improvement. If the conservative method does not achieve the desired results, a surgical intervention may be considered.

Doctors with this specialisation

Privatklinik Bethanien

Dr. med. Michel Schneider

Specialisation
Spinal surgery, Spinal tumours and metastases on the spinal column, Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal, Herniated disc, Herniated disc in the thoracic spine, Slipped disc in the cervical spine – cervical disc herniation, Herniated disc in the lumbar spine View more
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