What is herniated disk?
A herniated disk refers to a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (disks) that sit between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine.
A herniated disk, which can occur in any part of the spine, can irritate a nearby nerve. Depending on where the herniated disk is, it can result in pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.
Many people have no symptoms from a herniated disk. Surgery is usually not necessary to relieve the problem.
Symptoms
Most herniated disks occur in the lower back, although they can also occur in the neck.
Signs and symptoms depend on where the disk is situated and whether the disk is pressing on a nerve. They usually affect one side of the body.
Arm or leg pain
If your herniated disk is in your lower back, you'll typically feel the most pain in your buttocks, thigh and calf. You might have pain in part of the foot, as well.
If your herniated disk is in your neck, you'll typically feel the most pain in your shoulder and arm. Pain is often described as sharp or burning.
Numbness or tingling
People who have a herniated disk often have radiating numbness or tingling in the body part served by the affected nerves.
Weakness
Muscles served by the affected nerves tend to weaken. This can cause you to stumble, or affect your ability to lift or hold items.
You can have a herniated disk without symptoms. You might not know you have it unless it shows up on a spinal image.
Causes
Disk herniation is most often the result of a gradual, aging-related wear and tear called disk degeneration. As you age, your disks become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist.
Most people can't pinpoint the cause of their herniated disk. Rarely, a traumatic event such as a fall or a blow to the back is the cause.
Risk factors
- Weight.
- Occupation. People with physically demanding jobs have a greater risk of back problems.
- Genetics
- Smoking
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095
