Back To Health presents:

Making Sense of Herniated Disks
by Sue Sarko

Why are spinal discs so important? Often, in fact 80% of the time, back pain problems stem from the spinal discs. Discs are extremely important, because they play a central role with regard to the spine’s mobility as well as its stress capacity. Discs are what allow us to twist, turn, bend and move. They provide us with our flexibility, and also act as shock absorbers for the spine’s vertebrae.

How does a disc herniation occur and what are its symptoms? Under stress, the inner material of the disc may swell, pushing through its tough outer membrane. All or part of the disc’s core actually protrudes through that outer membrane which, in turn, causes pressure around the surrounding nerves. This can cause quite a bit of pain. Symptoms, however, vary depending on the location and the extent to which the disc material is protruding. Often times, the pain can cause difficulty walking. If the sciatic nerve is involved, pain in the thigh and lower leg may occur. Something as simple as a sneeze, for example, might send pain shooting down the leg into the calf and ankle area. Disc herniations most commonly target men under the age of 50. They almost always occur in the lumbar, or lower spine area. Very rarely (about 10% of the time) are herniated discs seen in the neck and shoulder area.

Can disc herniations be prevented? People who participate in moderate, regular exercise are much less likely to suffer from disc herniations than their sedentary counterparts.  Active people will also benefit from and enjoy a wider range of flexibility and less stiffness later in life. Often times, disc herniations occur shortly after a person gets out of bed in the morning. If the back is not properly supported during sleep, discs can get out of alignment and protrude slightly. So when a person gets out of bed and bends over to tie his shoes, for example, he may find that his back goes out. A good preventive measure, then, particularly for those who are prone to disc problems, is to be certain that the spine remains properly aligned in its natural position during the night.

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