A vertebral hernia is a dangerous disease caused by deformation of the intervertebral discs. In this case, part of the contents of the disc is squeezed outward, forming a kind of tumor. This causes compression of the nerve endings, which has a detrimental effect on the entire body.
What are the causes, symptoms and treatment of a hernia of the spine will be written later.
Causes of the disease
Like any disease, a spinal hernia has certain prerequisites for the occurrence.
The main reasons for the appearance of this ailment include the following:
- natural wear and tear of the body;
- chronic osteochondrosis;
- increased physical activity;
- injuries or trauma received;
- unhealthy diet associated with a lack of calcium;
- weakening of the back muscles.
The disease proceeds in 3 stages:
- Weakening of the walls of the intervertebral disc, the appearance of cracks on it. The patient feels unwell and discomfort in the back.
- The incipient deformation leads to compression of the nerve endings and the occurrence of periodic pain.
- Breakthrough of jelly-like contents through the walls of the disc. This leads to limited mobility and acute pain syndrome. Digestive functions may be impaired, arms and legs become numb, and shock pains occur.
At the location, the intervertebral hernia can be in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. The lumbar region is the most vulnerable to this ailment, as it experiences the most severe stress.
Herniated disc treatment
The spine is a rather delicate and sensitive organ. His treatment must be treated very carefully.
There are such treatment methods:
- Conservative. In this case, the pain syndrome is eliminated and certain medications are prescribed. Stretching and fixation of the spinal column is performed. A good effect is achieved with the use of massage and physiotherapy exercises.
- Surgical. Spine surgery is performed in emergency cases when conservative treatment has failed.
Proper nutrition and an active lifestyle will help prevent the progression of this disease.