Important Facts On Herniated Disc Nyc Residents Need To Understand

By Randy Routlen


Inter-vertebral discs serve the function of shock absorption when movements occur between adjacent inter-vertebral joints. When the spine is subjected to blunt force trauma or when one is engaged in a heavy lifting activity, the disc may herniate and cause impingement of nerves in the region. There are a number of things on herniated disc nyc residents need to know if struggling with the problem.

When you go to your doctor, their first task is to confirm the diagnosis. There are a number of other conditions that have a similar symptomatic pattern and these must be ruled out. A clinical history and a physical examination rule out most of the alternative diagnoses. One should suspect herniation if they experience constant low back pain that radiates to a limb. The pain is worse on walking and is associated with numbness and a tingling sensation.

Radiological images are the most important investigations that are used here. The most important are the CT scan (computed tomography scan) and MRI (magnetic resonance images). The former is chosen when the problem is thought to be related to bony structures. Such may include vertebral fractures or bone tumors. The latter, on the other hand, is used in case the problem is through to originate from soft tissues. Overall, it is the most sensitive.

The interventions that can be used to solve this problem are broadly classified into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options. The conservative options work by manipulating the affected joint to restore normalcy without opening it up. They include, for instance, physical therapies, traction, chiropractic and acupressure among others. The surgical option, on the other hand, require that the joint be opened to sort out the problem.

In traction, a gentle pulling force is applied to the spine over several sessions. This is done by placing a harness on the pelvis to help in transmitting the force. The pull helps increase the space between adjacent vertebrae which in turn allows the prolapsed disc to slip back into its position. This is usually done in an office and there is no need for one to be admitted to hospital.

Traction is generally a safe procedure. The force that is used is usually computer generated to minimize the risk of spinal injury. There are several conditions in which caution should be exercised or alternative methods used. One of them is the presence of fractures among candidates undergoing the procedure. Fractures are likely to be aggravated and healing delayed due to the pulling force. This problem may also be encountered in candidates who have implants or osteoporotic bones.

A decision to have surgery will be made if the conservative options fail to yield the expected results. During the surgery, the joint space will be opened and the disc manually returned to its position. Components of the vertebral body may be excised to create room. It is important to remember that the operation is associated with a number of risks similar to other major operations. They include bleeding, injury to nerves and infections among others.

Disc herniation is a condition that causes chronic back pain which in turn contributes to absenteeism from productive activities. Physical therapies, traction and other conservative approaches are effective in the majority of cases. Surgery is effective is usually the solution if these options do not yield positive results.




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