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Herniated Disk in the Back
A herniated disk in the back can be located anywhere in the spine, but it is most commonly found in the lower or lumbar region, which includes vertebrae L1-L5. The reason for the higher incidence in this area is the fact that the lower back generally endures more stress than the other parts of the back, as it is involved in heavy lifting and twisting. Over time, this extra wear and tear can break down the disk and cause its outer layer to split, allowing the inner layer to leak out.
Symptoms and Treatment for a Ruptured Disk
A torn disk can cause symptoms ranging from unnoticeable to so severe that they're debilitating, reducing the sufferer's quality of life and limiting the ability to perform normal daily activities. For those people looking to minimize symptoms during the healing period or simply manage a chronic condition, conservative treatment techniques such as those below often help:
- Rest
- Painkillers (OTC or prescription)
- Spinal decompression
- Alternating heat/ice compresses
- Epidural cortisone shots
- Stretching
- Exercise to build core strength and reduce weight
In addition to these, surgery can be used to treat a ruptured disk, but it is only an option for the most severe cases of the condition, and not everyone is eligible for this treatment. For those that are, there is a choice between open back/neck surgery and endoscopic procedures, which offer many advantages including a shorter recovery time and higher success rate.
If you'd like more information on treating a herniated disk in the back, contact Laser Spine Institute. We'll have one of our spine doctors review your CT scan or MRI free of charge and determine if you qualify for an endoscopic procedure at our facility.