Signs & Symptoms of Herniated Disc & Ability to Work

Herniated spinal disks occur when the nucleus of the disk seeps out through small tears. When this occurs, surrounding nerves are irritated by the material within the nucleus, producing common signs and symptoms. These can affect your ability to work.

Identification

• The indication of pain during leg raise and reflex function tests is evidence of a probable herniated disk, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms that don't improve may warrant an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT (computerized tomography) scan or X-ray.

Symptoms

• Pain radiating from the buttocks to the back or side of one leg, referred to as sciatica, is a common sign of a herniated disk. In addition, pain in the lower back, shoulder, chest, arm and neck may be present.

Considerations

• Symptoms indicating a severe condition can include increased and significant pain, numbness in the legs, bladder or bowel dysfunction and loss of sensation in the legs and thighs. Emergency treatment should be sought for any of these symptoms.

Effects

• Reducing your workload may be necessary as you recover. According to the Mayo Clinic, however, you shouldn't become inactive. Avoid prolonged sitting, reaching, bending and lifting at work during recovery.

Treatment

• Treatment can include the use of heat, cold and over-the-counter pain relief medications, including ibuprofen and aspirin, to help reduce inflammation and pain. Severe pain may require short-term bed rest or reduced work capacities, depending on your physician's advice.