The signs of a herniated disc, also called a slipped disc, depend on where in your spine the disc is. Lower back pain is the first and most common sign, because the lumbar spine is where herniated discs most often develop. Extreme pain in the shoulders, arms or hands can point to the neck, and extreme pain in the middle of the back can point to the thoracic spine. Weakness in the legs or numbness in the feet and toes can also be signs, and so can trouble controlling the need to urinate. Any of these symptoms should be checked by a doctor. Below, OrthoSports Associates walks through the three main sections of your spine and what to look for in each.
1. The Cervical Spine
This is the topmost part of your spine — the first seven vertebrae, just under your neck. The pain here may extend to the whole part of your upper back. Look out for signs of extreme pain in the shoulders or even lower arms and hands. If you suspect a disc hernia, it may be occurring in the spine’s cervical segment.
2. The Thoracic Portion
The next portion of your spine, just below the cervical area, is the thoracic. The next twelve vertebrae are housed here. Pay attention to extreme pain in the middle portion of your back. Whether sharp or numb pains in your back, they should be looked at by a doctor.
3. The Lumbar Spine
The next five vertebrae following the thoracic constitute the lumbar part of your spine. This is the most common area where people develop a herniated disc. Lower back pains are the first and most common symptom that you may have a hernia here.
Other Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Other symptoms may be pains in the legs, as a herniated disc could cause nerve root impingements. The pain could cause you to feel weak in your legs. Further symptoms include feeling a numb sensation in your feet and toes.
Another symptom of herniated discs that not many people think about is bladder problems, such as the inability to control the need to urinate.
If left too long without treatment, a herniated disc could be debilitating. If you have a family history of back pains, or suspect a slipped disc, get it checked right away.
Orthosports Associates Can Help You
OrthoSports Associates has extensive experience in treating patients with herniated discs and other ailments. If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is wise to call your physician right away to avoid further complications. Getting treatment early can also help you avoid more painful sensations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc happens when one of the soft, cushion-like discs between the vertebrae of your spine ruptures or bulges. The disc can then press on nearby nerves, causing pain and discomfort around the affected part of the spine, and sometimes numbness, tingling, muscle weakness or pain in the arms and legs.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed?
A doctor starts with your symptoms and where the pain is, since pain in the neck, mid back or lower back points to different parts of the spine. Imaging then helps confirm the cause. At OrthoSports Associates, imaging services play a key role in finding the root cause of spinal pain so treatment targets the real problem.
Will I need surgery for a herniated disc?
Not necessarily. Surgery is not the first option for most patients, and the spine team at OrthoSports Associates considers conservative treatments before recommending surgery. Seek prompt care if you have persistent numbness or weakness in your arms or legs, or lose bladder or bowel control, because those symptoms should not be ignored.