Intervertebral hernia as a dangerous disease of the spine

Intervertebral hernia is a dangerous disease of the spine, which is the damage and displacement of the intervertebral disc in the spinal canal, which leads to squeezing the spinal cord and nerve roots and severe pain.

Intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae and function as shock absorbers. Each disc consists of a dense outer fibrous ring and a soft gelatinous core. Hernia occurs as a result of damage to the fibrous ring, in which the nucleus extends beyond it and causes inflammation.

There are two stages of development of the intervertebral hernia. At the first stage, a degenerative process begins, which is indicated by pain in the lumbar region. At the same time, the strength of the fibrous ring decreases, and cracks form in it. After a while, the core of the disk protrudes outward. At the second stage, the nucleus of the nerve root is squeezed, which leads to its edema and disruption of blood supply. In this case, the pain syndrome becomes more intense.

What are the causes of hernia?

The main causes of intervertebral hernia include:

• Various diseases of the spine (scoliosis, osteochondrosis)
• Injuries to the spine
• Excessive strain on the spine
• Age-related changes in the spine (wear of discs)
• Diseases of internal organs
• Overweight

What are the symptoms of an intervertebral hernia?

The main manifestation of the intervertebral hernia is a pain syndrome. Initially, pain occurs after physical exertion, when lifting weights or after a long stay in an uncomfortable position. Pain also aggravated by straining, coughing, or sneezing. As a rule, symptom relief is observed in the prone position.

Symptoms of the intervertebral hernia depend on its localization. Thus, in the lumbar hernia, in addition to back pain, pain, tingling, or weakness in the leg often occurs , which is usually accompanied by a loss of sensitivity in the foot or shin area.

If a hernia is formed in the cervical spine, then pain occurs in the back of the neck and head, and sometimes can spread downward to the scapula. In addition, patients may experience numbness or weakness in their hands. If the hernia compresses the spinal cord, then there is general weakness, trouble with urination and difficulty walking.

Much less often a hernia forms in the thoracic spine. This pain occurs in the chest, abdomen or back of the chest.

How is the intervertebral hernia treated?

Usually treatment of the intervertebral hernia of mild and moderate severity includes observance of bed rest and rest (the patient is recommended to lie on his back with raised legs in the least painful posture), and also taking painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Recovery comes after two or three months, but pain usually passes after three to four weeks.

In more severe cases, for example, when the pain syndrome can not be alleviated with the help of medications, or in violation of the functions of the pelvic organs, surgical treatment may be required.

During the recovery period after treatment, patients are recommended to practice therapeutic gymnastics, which helps restore the mobility of the spine.

How to prevent the formation of an intervertebral hernia?

For prevention of intervertebral hernia it is recommended:

• To go in for sports and to lead a mobile way of life
• Avoid overcooling and prolonged exposure to damp areas
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid prolonged sitting
• Follow the posture when walking and while sitting
• Sleep on a hard mattress
• Avoid excessive physical exertion.