For quite some time, I wasn't sure what I was going to do about my failing health. I knew that I had a few longterm health problems, but resolving the issues felt really difficult. Fortunately, a friend of mine mentioned going to the doctor, so I began looking for medical alternatives. I began working with one doctor who suggested a course of medications and a few lifestyle changes, and I was really enthusiastic about the progress I was making. I know that making health and medical changes helped the quality of my life, and I know it could help you too. Check out this blog for more information.
Is It A Herniated Disc? 3 Warning Signs To Watch For
Back pain is not uncommon among adults across the United States. Strenuous physical activity or sitting behind a desk all day in a non-supportive chair can cause the lower back to become strained. Many types of back pain are caused by strained or pulled muscles, and these types of pain are typically temporary.
A herniated disc is a more serious type of back injury that could result in long-term pain and discomfort. It can be difficult to determine whether or not you need to seek treatment for your back pain. Being aware of some of the warning signs of a herniated disc will help you seek out the appropriate treatment before too much damage occurs.
1. Persistent Localized Pain
A herniated disc occurs when the soft interior of the discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae slips out of place. Since the soft interior acts as a shock absorber, the absence of the disc's interior will cause vertebrae to grind against one another. This grinding can lead to localized pain.
Other back problems can also create localized pain, but these types of pain will usually improve over a period of time. The pain associated with a herniated disc will remain constant and might even become worse as time passes. If you have back pain that hasn't resolved itself in a matter of weeks, it's time to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
2. Numbness
The discs within your spinal column are in close proximity to the nerves that extend outward from the spine. When the herniation (or movement of the soft interior of the disc) becomes great enough, the disc can place pressure on the nerves surrounding it.
A pinched nerve will result in numbness in the area near the herniation. Any numbness you experience in your back should be looked at by a qualified physician to ensure that a pinched nerve doesn't become irreparably damaged.
3. Radiating Symptoms
A herniated disc can create pain, tingling, or numbness in other parts of the body. Since the nerves that extend out from the spine are responsible for controlling various body parts, any pressure placed on these nerves by a herniated disc could have an adverse effect in a remote part of the body.
A herniation in your lower back could result in problems with your feet, legs, or buttock. If you experience adverse symptoms in an area of your body that has not sustained an injury, then a herniated disc might be to blame. For more information, contact a company like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates.