The term “slipped disc” is a little bit misleading; in fact, these discs do not actually split, but instead may bulge, slip or rupture, causing nearby tissue to herniate as their inner gel escapes into it. This condition can place pressure on a patient’s spinal cord and adjacent nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness anywhere in the area. However, many patients do not actually experience any symptoms at all due to abnormal or degenerated discs.
What are the Symptoms?
The first step toward getting adequate slipped disc treatment in Westminster CA is, of course, to recognize the symptoms and seek medical attention. Since the body’s nerves exit the spine in the lower back, the middle back, and the neck slipped discs can produce symptoms anywhere in these areas. In the neck, symptoms tend to include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, arm, shoulder, or even the hand; these symptoms are often affected by neck motion. In the lower back, symptoms tend to include pain down the back of the leg, often referred to medically as sciatica, numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness along the sciatic nerves, pain with movement, and difficulty controlling bladder and bowel function.
When Should Patients Seek Medical Attention?
If the symptoms are significant enough for patients to need to limit their physical activity, it’s time to seek medical attention. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, a doctor may suggest that his or her patient visit the emergency room, especially if the pain is severe enough to prevent walking or the patient’s bladder and bowel control are affected. Minor cases of slipped discs can be treated at home through limiting activity, using hot and cold packs, and using over the counter pain relievers.
What Does Professional Treatment Involve?
Most slipped disc treatment in Westminster CA is fairly straightforward. It involves limiting activity and using targeted stretches and exercises as prescribed by a physical therapist; anti-inflammatory medications may also be suggested and, in extreme cases, surgery may be required. Visit Aspirepainmedicalcenter.com to learn more about herniated discs and other conditions that affect the neck and back or call to schedule a consultation with a specialist today to get started learning more about treatment options. You can also like them on Facebook for more information.
