Disc Herniation

Question 1

What is disc herniation

Answer 1

When the nucleus pulposus is displaced from intervertebral space

Question 2

Epidemiology and risk factors of disc herniation

Answer 2

Age related degeneration of intervertebral discs
Improper lifting techniques or heavy lifting
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Genetics, family history
Receptivity strain or strenuous activities that strain the lower back
Trauma
Infection-osteomyelitis
Connective tissue disorder

Question 3

Clinical presentation of disc herniation

Answer 3

Back pain, radiating to thighs, hammies, buttocks
Numbness or tingling in the affected area
Muscular weakness in the legs or feet
Pain that worsens with movement, coughing and sneezing
Difficulty walking or standing for prolonged periods of time
Severer lower back pain that radiates
Pain whilst walking
Muscle spasm, tingling, weakness or atteophy
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Slow and deliberate tip,toe walking

Question 4

Systemic effects of disc herniation

Answer 4

Radiculopathy, pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, narrowing of the nerve pathway
Cauda equine syndrome, leading to bowel or bladder dysfunction
Chronic pain and disability affecting daily activities and quality of life
Postural changes, compensation for pain could lead to muscle strains

Question 5

Pathology of disc herniation

Answer 5

Intervertebral discs degenerate and lose their cushioning. Disc material bulges and ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves. Never compression leads to pain weakness, and numbness in the affected area. Associated with lifting during flexing or prolonged amounts of time

Question 6

Differential diagnosis of disc herniation

Answer 6

Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Spondylolytheisis
Muscle strain
Sij dysfunction
Myofasical pain
Spondylosis

Question 7

Treatment of disc herniation

Answer 7

Conservative management, physical therapy
Pain medication
Epidural steroid injections, to reduce pain and inflammation
Surgical interventions
Lifestyle modifications