Herniated Disc Vs. Slipped Disc

Many terms are used to describe spinal disc problems and the pain associated with them. Herniated disc, slipped disc, pinched nerve and bulging disc are all terms used interchangeably by physicians.

Description

• The vertebrae of the spine are cushioned by cartilage pads made up of a soft inner layer and a tough outer layer. A herniated disc or slipped disc occurs when part of the inner layer protrudes through a tear in the outer layer applying pressure to nerves.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of herniated discs include sciatic pain in the buttocks radiating down the back of a leg; weakness, pain and numbness in the lower back, or in the neck, shoulder, and arm; and lower back or leg pain increasing with sitting, coughing and sneezing.

Causes

• Degeneration caused by wear is the most common cause of herniated discs. Additional causes include lifting with your back, lifting while twisting and trauma.

Susceptibility

• Susceptibility factors for herniated discs include age, decreased oxygen levels in blood from smoking, disc stress caused by being overweight and physically demanding jobs.

Treatments

• Avoiding strenuous activity, physical therapy and painkillers usually resolve most herniated disc symptoms. If pain persists for more than six weeks, surgery to relieve pressure and pain may be recommended.