Herniated disk
If you’re having pain in your lower back or leg, you might have a herniated disk. This condition is common, though it’s not always serious. It’s a painful condition that can happen for a variety of reasons, including injury or aging. However, a herniated disk is usually easy to treat.
In order to diagnose a herniated disk, you will need to get a physical exam. During your exam, you’ll have to pay attention to any weakness, numbness, or sensory disturbances. You may also be asked to perform certain tasks.
If your doctor has diagnosed you with a herniated disc, your next step will be to begin treatment. Treatment for this condition is designed to ease the pain and reduce any swelling or stiffness. These treatments may include medication, rest, and physical therapy.
Physical therapy is often recommended in the first few weeks of treatment, and will involve exercises to help you regain muscle strength. Specific exercises can also help you regain the flexibility and strength of your legs and back.
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need to avoid strenuous activity for a period of time. For example, you should avoid lifting heavy objects or twisting your body.
After you start to feel better, you can start to return to regular activities. However, it is important to avoid heavy lifting for six weeks after your surgery.
Surgery is a last resort for herniated disks, and it may leave you with permanent nerve damage. It’s best to talk with your doctor about the possibility of a herniated disk before undergoing any form of surgery.
Herniated discs are a relatively common condition, especially in people age 30 and above. They can occur for a variety of reasons, from an injury to your back to a traumatic event. Some people have a genetic predisposition for this condition.
A herniated disc isn’t dangerous, but it can cause pain and weakness in your arms and legs. If you experience severe symptoms, you should call your physician. Symptoms depend on where your herniated disk is located and how much pressure it is placing on the nearby nerves.
Arthritis
Arthritis causes back pain because of the way it affects the spine. The spine is made up of vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Normally, these structures support the spinal cord and provide space for motion. However, as the discs wear out, the spaces between the vertebrae become smaller. This causes more pressure on the joints. In addition, the cartilage in the spinal discs begins to break down.
The most common type of arthritis in the back is osteoarthritis. It usually affects middle-aged or older individuals.
Back pain caused by arthritis can be painful and uncomfortable, but it can also be relieved by changes in lifestyle and medications. It’s important to find a doctor to diagnose the problem. A physical exam will help the physician identify the cause of your pain. You may be asked to sit up in various positions, touch your back and legs, and check for tender or painful areas.
Depending on the type of arthritis, a surgical procedure might be recommended. These procedures are specialized procedures that minimize risk to the surrounding tissues and nerves.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the joints, lining, and spine. Symptoms include joint pain and stiffness. RA is most often seen in women, although men can develop it too.
Osteoporosis is another inflammatory condition that can be treated with medication or surgery. OA is associated with loss of calcium in the bones. Thin bones make it easier for bone breaks to occur. If you have osteoporosis, you can reduce your chances of developing spinal arthritis by taking vitamins and calcium supplements.
Another form of arthritis, spinal stenosis, can cause low back pain. Often, it’s accompanied by numbness in the lower back or legs. When you sit, your body puts pressure on the spinal nerves. Pain can radiate to the front of the thighs, buttocks, and pelvis.
While there are a variety of factors that can cause back pain, the most common are injury, arthritis, and degenerative disc disease. Some of these conditions can be managed through rest and exercise.