You could be facing a lot of difficulties in the future if you have back pain. This is especially true if your back pain isn’t under control. Although there are many causes for back pain, herniated or bulging discs are much more common than people think. It doesn’t matter if you have had a history of herniated discs before, it is important to understand what is causing your back pain.
There are three main types of herniated spines that can cause back pain. The severity of your back pain may dictate that you have to undergo orthopedic spine surgery. Specialists can help you find out what’s causing your back problems, and how to overcome them. To learn more about herniated or bulging discs, these are three types you might encounter.
Contained Herniation – Protrusion
Contained herniations also known as “bulging discs” because they are caused by pressure between vertebrae, causing the discs to protrude. Although these herniations can cause pain in the back, it is often overlooked. Contained herniations usually cause mild back pain. This is due to the discs becoming compressed by the vertebrae, which puts pressure on nearby nerves.
Non-Contained Herniation, (Disc Extrusion)
A disc extrusion is a non-contained herniation. These herniations are known to cause back pain. These herniations can also cause severe back pain. If you have suffered from chronic back pain for a while, this may be a severe symptom. However, you might try to ignore it. These symptoms can be severe so make sure to contact your doctor.
Sequestered Herniation
If non-contained herniations are not treated or noticed, they can lead to sequestered herniations. This happens when the vertebrae press on the discs to the point that they burst. This can cause severe pain and even mobility problems for the patient. You should immediately consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Back pain is something you should address immediately. Talk to your doctor about the options available if your back is suffering from herniations. Your doctor may refer you to an orthopedic specialist at Peconic bay Medical Center.
The Design of The Disc
The intervertebral Discs, located between the vertebrae, provide your spine with shock absorption and protective cushioning. They also provide lubrication. A rubbery “pastry”, or outer layer, called the annulus, is what makes up the disc’s structure. A thick, jelly-like substance known as the nucleus provides the internal filling of the disc.
An intervertebral disc’s ideal anatomy provides your spine with great protection. But, protection comes with a price. A damaged intervertebral disc can easily be caused by aging, injury, heavy lifting, or disease. In turn, nerve compression, bone-on–bone friction, and loss of height between the vertebrae can all result from a damaged intervertebral Disc.
In extreme cases, a bulging disc may even block nerve signals, leading in loss of sensation and reduced mobility. Disc herniations can also occur in the cervical or thoracic regions of the spine. The majority of disc herniations happen in the ultra-movable cervical and weight-bearing, lumbar spines. All disc injuries can be seen at different levels of the spine. However not all herniations show the same symptoms. Different degrees and locations can cause symptoms to vary.