Let’s assume you have had relentless back pain, and the diagnosis reveals a spinal disc herniation. Depending on its severity, your doctor may recommend several treatment measures.
Spine 360 is the best destination for herniated disc surgery in Bangalore. Herniated discs are common spine-related ailments that can result in more complications if not treated properly. Our article aims to educate you about the types of spinal disc herniation and the possible treatments you can consider to find relief from this spinal issue.
What is Spinal Disc Herniation & What Causes It?
The human spine has 33 vertebrae running from the base of your skull to your tailbone. Each vertebra is cushioned by a flat, round disc that acts like a shock absorber. Each disc has a soft, gel-like centre surrounded by a flexible outer ring.
A disc herniation is when this soft cushion is forced out of its boundaries due to a fall, accident, or blunt force trauma. This herniated disc can be painful and limit your spinal mobility and flexibility. However, these issues are just the tip of the iceberg. Spinal disc herniation can cause more problems than you think, which is why it is essential to seek medical help when you notice persistent symptoms.
Doctors use several terms when referring to spinal disc herniation. It is also know as:
- Slipped disc
- Disc protrusion
- Disc extrusion
- Disc sequestration
It is essential to know that these discs are indispensable in protecting, cushioning, and lubricating your spinal canal in everything you do. However, this protection comes at a cost.
Disc injuries can occur due to age, accidents, diseases, and improper postures when lifting heavy objects. Sometimes, the disc can tear due to traumatic injuries. Degenerative spine diseases can cause wear and tear over time.
An injured disc bulges from its normal position, putting pressure on the surrounding tissues. Without timely treatment, the disc can lose its ability to function correctly. It can even lead to inflammation and irritation of the tissues, loss of sensation and poor flexibility.
Herniated discs are not the same. They differ in how they are injured. Let’s explore the common types of herniated discs that could be causing your pain.
Also Read: Lumbar Disc Prolapse (Disc Herniation)
3 Common Spinal Disc Herniations
1. Contained Herniation
Container herniations are also called “bulging discs” because they protrude from the sides due to vertebral pressure. This spinal disc herniation may cause mild pain and tingling in the limbs when the disc compression presses on the nearby neurons.
The jelly-like neuron is damaged in a bulging disc and presses on the outer ring or annulus. This part, in turn, pressurises the sensitive spinal nerves. Unlike other disc herniations, a contained herniation is less painful and causes minimal discomfort. Sometimes, it is possible not to feel any pain at all despite the herniation.
2. Non-Contained Herniation
A non-contained herniation is more painful than a contained herniation because the nucleus of the disc breaks and ruptures through the annulus. The leaking nucleus can extend as far as the adjacent nerve roots or the spinal cord itself.
This type of herniation, also called disc extrusion, can manifest as numbness, extreme pain, and loss of sensation in the extremities. The disc herniation can also cause swelling and burning sensations due to the extremity of the damage.
3. Sequestered Herniation
The sequestered herniation is the most severe of all herniations. When left untreated, non-contained herniations can lead to sequestered herniations or broken discs. The breakage is caused by the immense pressure of the vertebrae on the disc, causing excruciating pain, loss of mobility, and spinal stenosis.
When disc sequestration occurs, a section of the spinal disc bulges out and ultimately separates from the rest of the disc. This is also referred to as a free fragment. This free fragment can migrate to various locations along the spinal canal and get trapped within spaces.
Similar to extrusion, sequestration can also elicit an immune response to the nucleus material, leading to inflammation in the area.
Treatment Options For Herniated Discs
It doesn’t take much to limit your chances of getting a spinal disc herniation. Maintaining proper postures, a healthy weight, and an active lifestyle are some of the measures that safeguard your spinal health.
However, if you have a herniated disc, it is important to seek the proper treatment without wasting time. After diagnosis, your spine doctor will decide on the course of treatment depending on:
- The severity of the pain
- The underlying cause
- The duration of your pain
If your spinal disc herniation is mild, your doctor may suggest simple, non-invasive treatments like:
- Physiotherapy
- Medications like NSAIDs or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
- Heat and ice therapy
- Chiropractic therapy
- Pain medications
- Epidural injections
- Traction and manipulation
When the above measures fail to deliver the desired results, doctors may recommend minimally invasive procedures, especially if your muscles become extremely weak or when your motor functions are compromised. You may require:
- Radio Frequency Ablation
- Spinal Decompression
- Lumbar Fusion
These minimally invasive surgeries involve injecting steroids into the affected area through small incisions rather than making significant cuts for open surgery.
Trust Spine 360 For the Best Spinal Care
A slipped disc can cause nagging pain and make it challenging to continue with routine work. However, with the right treatment, physiotherapy, and pain management techniques, herniated discs heal well and quickly.
At Spine 360, our team of spine specialists utilises the latest treatment approaches to provide you with the most effective care possible. We offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments for herniated discs. Connect with us at Spine 360, where we prioritise your spinal health and overall well-being.
