Spotting the Warning Signs of a Herniated Disc

You may think of herniated discs as a problem for older people, but it turns out the population with the highest incidence of herniated discs is 30-50 year olds.

They occur in about 2% of the population — that’s up to 20 cases per 1,000 adults every year in the United States.

If you’re wondering if you have a herniated disc due to some unusual symptoms, the earlier you chase down the answer, the better. 

Here at Palm Beach Pain Institute, Dr. Marcie Merson and our team have treated herniated discs in countless patients over the years. Here are a few warning signs you need to be on the lookout for if you’re concerned about a herniated disc.

What is a herniated disc?

First, let’s talk about what herniated discs actually are. You have 33 vertebrae that make up your spine from the base of your skull to your tailbone. Between each vertebra are round discs that provide cushioning for the vertebrae, allowing you to move without any pain.

Also called a slipped, ruptured, or bulging disc, a herniated disc occurs when the tough exterior of the disc ruptures, allowing the soft, gel-like center of the disc to leak out. A herniated disc can be caused by an injury, trauma, wear-and-tear, or a degenerative disease.

What are the warning signs?

Back pain

Continuing lower back or neck pain is a big sign of a herniated disc. The pain may come directly from the ruptured disc, or it may be a result of problems the disc causes with your spine. The pain can develop gradually as the disc gets worse, or it can appear suddenly. 

Supporting muscles and ligaments can also be stressed by the problem, contributing even more back and neck pain to the mix.

Nerve pain

Herniated discs can push again or pinch nerves in your spine, causing pain as well. The leaked material can also cause pressure on the nerves. Nerve pain can travel down one or both legs if it’s in your lower back, or it can go down your arms if the disc is in your upper back or neck. This radiating pain can be quite severe, and it often appears suddenly.

Tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness

You may feel a tingling sensation from the pinched nerves in your arms, legs, hands, or feet. The nerve damage could also cause numbness. If you ignore continuing disc and nerve pain, the damage in your spine could eventually lead to muscle weakness as well.

What is the treatment?

Treatment can include anti-inflammatory pain relievers or muscle relaxers, physical therapy, and spinal injections of steroid medication. Most cases get better over time either on their own or with these treatments. If you continue to experience these warning signs, surgery may eventually be an option to remove the damaged part of the disc, relieving pressure on the spine.

If you’re looking for help with a herniated disc, our team at Palm Beach Pain Institute is here to help. Just call our office at 561-499-7020 or use our online scheduler to book your own appointment anytime!