Health A-Z

Disc prolapse, also known as herniated or slipped disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc protrudes through the tougher outer layer, often causing compression or irritation of nearby nerves. Here's how it relates to symptoms, treatment plans, and diagnosis testing.

1. Back pain: Pain may be localized to the affected area of the spine or radiate to other parts of the body, such as the buttocks, legs, or feet.
2. Nerve compression symptoms: Depending on the location and severity of the disc prolapse, symptoms may include:
   • Sciatica: Pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically down one leg.
   • Muscle weakness: Weakness or difficulty moving the affected muscles, which may lead to difficulty walking or performing daily activities.
   • Numbness or tingling: Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations in the affected area.
   • Bowel or bladder dysfunction: Rarely, severe disc prolapse may compress nerves that control bowel or bladder function, leading to urinary or fecal incontinence or retention.

1. Conservative treatment: In many cases, mild to moderate disc prolapse can be managed with conservative measures such as:

   • Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and allowing the body time to heal.
   • Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation.
   • Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and alleviate pressure on the affected area.
   • Epidural steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections into the epidural space around the spinal cord may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of nerve compression.

2. Surgical treatment: If conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief or if symptoms worsen, surgical intervention may be recommended. Common surgical procedures for disc prolapse include:

   • Discectomy: Removal of the portion of the disc that is causing nerve compression.
   • Microdiscectomy: Minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small incision and specialized instruments to remove the herniated portion of the disc.
   • Spinal fusion: In some cases, spinal fusion surgery may be performed to stabilize the spine and prevent further disc herniation.

1. Medical history and physical examination: A detailed history of symptoms, medical conditions, and previous treatments is obtained, followed by a physical examination to assess reflexes, muscle strength, sensation, and range of motion.
2. Imaging tests: Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans are used to visualize the spine and identify the location and extent of the disc prolapse, as well as any associated nerve compression or spinal cord compression.