3 Signs Your Back Pain Is A Herniated Disc: Microdiscectomy & Laminectomy

Back Pain Is Not Going Anywhere

Back pain continues to be one of the most common conditions in the world today. About 80% of persons will have back issues at some point, and many more will need long-term treatment. While the back pain can be minor, some signs point to a herniated disc.

What’s a herniated disc anyway?

The spine is the most important network of bones in the body. Made up of 33 vertebrae, together, these bones support and connect most of the other bones in the body. More importantly, the spine protects the spinal cord, a narrow highway of tissue and nerves connected to the brain. Between most of the 33 bones are fibrous discs. The discs act as shock absorbers from the impact of everyday life. However, discs can degrade over time and slip out of place. Or an injury can cause disc damage. The discs slip out of place, placing pressure on surrounding nerves. This is a herniated disc. For many, deciphering between a herniated disc and a muscle strain can be difficult. Look for these 3 signs of a herniated disc.

1. Intense pain to the limbs

The pressure on the surrounding nerves sends pain signals to the brain. This, in turn, sends signals back to the area where the nerve works. For example, if the lower back has a herniated disc, the nerves running down the leg get affected. This is also known as sciatica. If the pain comes with some numbness or even weakness, a herniated disc may be the issue.

2. Simple tasks are a pain

For some persons with herniated discs, simple tasks bring about sharp pain when performed. Before, simple tasks like lifting a box or pushing a heavy door were easy. Now, lifting, pushing, or pulling brings a sharp, intense pain. Something as simple as sneezing or laughing can send a shock to the back. Pain with these tasks is not normal, and there could be a herniated disc causing havoc. Speak to a doctor as soon as possible.

3. You can’t lift a leg without pain

Persons with a lower herniated disc will have trouble raising one or both legs. This is actually a test a doctor will use to check for herniated discs. Lying down on a flat surface, legs straight, take the left leg slowly to the ceiling. Then try the right leg. If there is a discomfort to the point the person cannot raise the leg any further, a herniated disc may be the issue.

Treating discs the right way

In many cases, doctors treat herniated discs without surgery. Doctors usually turn to physical therapy, exercise, and medication. If those methods fail, an epidural steroid injection at the pain site can bring months of relief. In severe cases, especially with muscle weakness, doctors will turn to surgery to bring relief to the affected nerves.

Turning to surgery

Doctors can use one of several procedures to correct the damage. The decision is made based on the degree of damage and underlying spinal conditions. A microdiscectomy and a laminectomy are 2 common procedures used for herniated discs. A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon removes parts of the damaged disc. Using a small incision and microscopic tools, the surgeon cuts parts of the disc away, giving the nerves much-needed space. With a laminectomy, the doctor will instead remove part of the lamina. This is the arched part of the vertebra that acts as a plate. A laminectomy also gives the nerves some breathing room.

Don’t back down from herniated discs

Herniated discs are painful and can negatively affect the quality of life. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Speak to a doctor right away. Chances are, the issue could be corrected without surgery if caught early. If not, rest assured, procedures like a microdiscectomy or laminectomy can help. Both procedures are safe with a high success rate. Get back the feel-good feeling of a healthy back today.