The majority of patients that have a herniated disc in the lumbar spine suffer from leg pain. When a patient has a herniated disc, the padding that sits in the middle of the vertebrae is moved from its regular position. A herniated disc would not pose a problem if it didn't place the spinal nerves so close to the edge of the spinal discs.
Causes
As the herniated disc moves out of place, the nerves become strained and cause pain in the legs. A herniated disc can occur after an accident or fall, or can happen over a period of time because of repeated strain of the spine.
Symptoms
As the spinal cord and nerves become compacted, they do not work properly. This means that the typical signals that are sent from the compacted nerves do not get sent at all. Common symptoms of a herniated disc in the lumbar region involve electric shock pain in one or both legs, numbness and tingling in the leg, and weakness in the leg muscles. A herniated disc in the lumbar region can also involve problems in the foot because of nerve impingement.
Diagnosis
A doctor will conduct a medical exam to help determine if you have a herniated disc. However, a physical exam will usually not be enough to receive treatment. An MRI will most likely be prescribed to determine the location of the herniated disc and see if there is any problem with the spinal cord. It is important for a doctor to review the MRI results to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as spinal degeneration that may pose a risk for more discs to become herniated.
Treatment
Treatment of a herniated disc will greatly depend upon the patient's age, level of activity and symptoms. Physical therapy may be included in the treatment to help a patient strengthen the lower back, as well as improve how he moves, lifts and engages in other activity. Physical therapy can help reduce the strain on the spine and reduce leg pain. A physician might also prescribe an anti-inflammatory prescription to help reduce the inflammation surrounding the nerves, thereby reducing pain in the back and leg. In some cases, a physician will inject an epidural steroid in the nerves surrounding the spine to help relieve pain in the back and legs.
Advanced Solutions
Surgical avenues may have to be taken when a herniated disc with leg pain does not get better through regular treatment options. If a patient has a severe case of weakness in the leg, fusion or other spine surgery may be considered. The location of the herniated disc will decide the type of surgical technique that will be required.
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