Herniated vertebral disk – how to recognize, understand and treat properly

Almost everybody has once suffered pain in the lower part of the back, which is a symptom of a herniated vertebral disk. But is this really an alarming sign? In fact only 3-5 % of acute dorsal pain is caused by a slipped disk. What happens actually when suffering a spinal disk herniation and how can it be recognized?

Vertebral disks are elastic, about 5-20 mm thick cartilage disks which are situated between the vertebras of the spinal column. The disk works like a buffer for the vertebras and creates spaces for the spinal nerves, which are protruding on the right and left side of the spine. It has a jellylike core which is hold by a ring of connective tissue. The vertebral disk itself consists of over 90% water. The nucleus can bulge out beyond the outer fibrous rings due to old age or abnormal biomechanical stress. This describes a “slipped disk” or in technical terminology a lumbar disc hernia. The outflowing jelly mass can press as a hernia on the spinal nerves which may cause severe pain. This phenomenon often occurs in the lumbar region, most often between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebral bodies or between the fifth and the sacrum.
Sensory changes such as numbness or paralysis in the leg or foot can be sign for a severe herniation.
In this case, it is recommended to conduct a MRI imaging as soon as possible.

Herniated vertebral disks are a common disease in old age, but can also occur in early life. The most frequent causes are malpositions, overweight and lack of physical exercise. Especially non-manual workers are in danger, as sitting on a chair for hours strains the back part of the vertebral disk. A training to strengthen the dorsal and abdominal muscles is an apporpriate preventive measurement. Many fitness centers have such special training offers.

Even if a spinal disk herniation is diagnosed, this is still no reason to panic. Minor herniations can be treated without a surgical operation. It is recommended to minimize the stress on the back, but to move normally as soon as possible. The pain can be treated with mild or strong pain meds. In severe cases the nerves or the spinal cord can be paralyzed with an injection. Accompanying heat treatments and electrotherapies are also effective.

More models and information about herniated vertebral disks can be found on www.erler-zimmer.de.

Erler-Zimmer GmbH & Co. KG; founded in 1949, run as a third generation, family owned enterprise. CEO Walter and Ute Probst. The company is specialized in anatomy, medical simulators and charts and has its own production site in Germany as well as highly reputed partners in Europe, USA and Asia.

PR contact:
Noreen Huber, Tel. +49 7841/6003-17

Erler-Zimmer GmbH&Co.KG
Hauptstraße 27
77886 Lauf
Tel.:+49 7841/60030
Fax: +49 7841/600320
www.erler-zimmer.de

This release was published on openPR.