Herniated Disc and Chronic Back Pain

spinal disc

Spinal disc displacement, commonly known as a herniated disc, is most frequently found in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40 years.

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Who Is at Risk of Spinal Disc Displacement?

Spinal disc displacement most commonly affects individuals aged 20–40 years and occurs nearly twice as often in males as in females. This condition is frequently associated with a history of back injury or significant physical trauma to the spine.

People who regularly lift heavy objects or maintain poor posture for prolonged periods—such as office workers—are also at increased risk. These factors place excessive pressure on the spinal discs, causing them to shift from their normal position. The lumbar spine (lower back) is the most commonly affected area, as it bears the greatest amount of body weight and mechanical stress.

Symptoms of Spinal Disc Displacement

Individuals with spinal disc displacement often experience pain localized in the lower back or waist. The pain may radiate down the leg, affecting the buttocks, thighs, the outer side of the foot, or specific toes.

Symptoms may begin suddenly, often after lifting heavy objects, and tend to worsen with certain movements or actions, including:

  • Bending or sitting for prolonged periods

  • Coughing or sneezing

  • Straining during bowel movements

If left untreated, spinal disc displacement may gradually lead to muscle weakness in the affected leg.

Potential Complications: Nerve Compression

Spinal disc displacement can compress nearby nerves, resulting in chronic pain in the lower back and legs. This condition may significantly impair daily activities and reduce quality of life, potentially causing emotional stress for both patients and their families.

However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, spinal disc displacement is generally not a life-threatening condition. Prompt medical care can effectively relieve symptoms, promote recovery, and help patients return to normal daily activities.

Treatment Options for Spinal Disc Displacement and Nerve Compression

Treatment depends on symptom severity and individual patient factors. Common options include:

  • Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI): Anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the epidural space of the spinal canal to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

  • Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB): Medication is injected directly around the affected nerve root to reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Surgical Treatment: In cases where conservative treatment is ineffective or neurological symptoms worsen, surgery may be recommended to relieve nerve compression.

Note: Vertebroplasty is generally used to treat vertebral fractures rather than herniated discs and may be considered only in specific clinical situations as determined by a physician.

Treatment Considerations and Recovery

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, imaging findings, and the patient’s overall health. Management may range from physical therapy and spinal injections to surgical intervention in more advanced cases.

Following surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for approximately 4–5 days before being discharged to continue recovery at home and gradually resume normal activities.

All treatments should be performed by specialized physicians using standardized medical equipment to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

 

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If you begin to experience persistent or worsening back pain, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist as early as possible. At Phyathai Sriracha Hospital, our experienced team of orthopedic surgeons is available daily to provide expert consultation, accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment for spinal conditions.

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