What Are Disc Herniations?

What is a disc herniation?

The lumbar spine consists of 5 moveable vertebrae numbered L1-L5. The lumbar spine is designed to be incredibly strong, protecting the highly sensitive spinal cord and spinal nerve roots. At the same time, it is flexible, providing for mobility in many different planes including fiexion, extension, side bending, and rotation. The lumbar discs are "pads" that serve as "cushions" between the vertebrae of the spine. A rupture of the central portion of the disc is referred to as a disc herniation.

What are risk factors for a disc herniation?

Disc herniation is most often the result of a gradual and sometimes age related wearing of the disc called degeneration. As you age, your spinal discs lose some of their water content. That makes them less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist. Weight, occupation, improper bending and lifting are a few of the risk factors. At times, a traumatic event such as a fall or auto accident can cause a herniated disc.

What are the symptoms?

• Muscle spasms
• Radiating pain into the buttocks, thigh and calf; possibly below knee into the foot
• Numbness and/or tingling

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*If you have weakness or numbness in both legs

along with loss of bladder or bowel

control, seek immediate medical attention.

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What are the treatment options?

• Exercises that focus on strength, range of motion and stability
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for pain management during the acute phase
• In severe cases cortisone injections or surgical intervention may be necessary
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Exercise Programming and Prevention strategies

It is important to include an exercise protocol that focuses on regaining strength and flexibility. Soft tissue work using a foam roller can be helpful to restore muscular imbalances in the area above and below the low back. As for all exercise protocols it is important to conduct the exercises on a regular basis for a minimum of 6-8 weeks. Discuss these options with your health care professional to determine which would be the best treatment approach for you.