Signs You May Have a Herniated Disc

Constant, sharp pain in your lower back can be just one sign of a herniated disc. As an orthopedic surgeon in Debary, we have helped to diagnose and treat many herniated discs. more often occurring in the lower back, a herniated disc can occur anywhere in the spine. While there are many signs that you could have a herniated disc, it is possible for people to have no symptoms at all. Over time, herniated disc symptoms can improve. As a result, surgery is very rarely necessary. These are a few of the most common signs and symptoms of a herniated disc.

Weakness & Numbness of Limbs

If you are experiencing a bit of a weakness in your leg or an arm, it could be the result of a herniated disc. While any weakness or numbness of your limbs should be taken seriously, this could be a sign that you need to see a doctor.

On occasion, these rubbery cushions (discs) can tear on the exterior. The soft interior will slip out. When this disc ruptures like this, nerves nearby can become irritated. This is what will result in the numbness or weakness in limbs.

Pain Caused by a Herniated Disc

One major sign that you have a herniated disc would be pain. However, the pain isn't always going to be present in one specific area, nor will it be there at all times. For example, while pain in your back may not be an issue, you could experience in your leg instead. There are 3 signs of herniated disc pain:

Sitting Pain

Sitting is something that causes a tremendous amount of pressure to focus on your lower spinal discs. If one of these discs are bulging or herniated, the pressure will cause your lower back to experience pain when you sit or remain sitting.

Radiating Leg Pain (Sciatica)

If you have a herniated disc in your lower back, or the lateral region in proximity to the nerve roots, you could experience one of two results:

• Chemical Irritation – Occurs when the acidic irritating chemicals from the disc. This will cause irritation and inflammation across the nerve root region.
• Direct Compression – Refers to the bulge or leaking contents are pressured on a nerve root in the spinal cord as it exists the canal.

The nerve root will be altered and you can also experience burning pain with numbness, weakness, and tingling. These feelings can extend down to your foot from your thigh. This is referred to as sciatica.

Lastly, your pain may increase due to pressure caused by activities. These signs and symptoms can be relieved if too great. If not addressed, your day to day activities and quality of life can be impacted to some negative results. If you are concerned that you have a herniated disc or you suffer from extreme back pain, you will want to see an orthopedic surgeon in Debary to be treated.

Contact the professionals at Florida Bone and Joint to hear more about our specialties today!