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Herniated Disc
A herniated disc in the back occurs when one of the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae in the spine, ruptures or bulges out of place. This can happen due to wear and tear, sudden injury, or lifting heavy objects improperly. When a disc herniates, the inner gel-like substance (nucleus pulposus) pushes through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus), which can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness.
Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lumbar (lower back) region, but they can also affect the cervical (neck) area. The condition can cause significant discomfort and limit a person's ability to perform daily activities, especially when nerve compression is involved.
Common Symptoms
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Sharp, radiating pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs (sciatica)
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Pain that worsens with movement, such as bending, lifting, or sitting for long periods
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Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet (lumbar herniation) or in the arms and hands (cervical herniation)
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Muscle weakness in the legs, feet, arms, or hands
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Difficulty standing up straight or maintaining proper posture
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Pain that improves when lying down or changing positions
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Loss of reflexes in the legs or arms, depending on the location of the herniation
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Difficulty performing everyday tasks like walking, lifting objects, or climbing stairs
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Severe cases may involve loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency known as cauda equina syndrome)
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