#6 Minute Read.
The epidemic of back pain has rocketed. More and more individuals all over the world are suffering with back pain and disc prolapses. Yet, it seems to be that, everytime the word ‘prolapse’, ‘herniation’ or ‘slipped’ discs are mentioned, everyone becomes excessively concerned and protective. But, what is a prolapse? That is what you will find out through this blog as well as how to manage it.
What is a Disc Prolapse?
A disc prolapse is a displacement of the disc and/or the disc materials beyond the intervetebral disc space. To simplify that, it is the movement of the disc or the material encapsulated within the disc away from it’s normal position. Lumbar disc herniations can lead to back pain and/or leg pain and usually (approx. 90% of the time) affects the L4/L5 (Lumbar Vertebrae 4 or 5; there are 5 Lumbar Vertebrae) as they are the biggest and most weight-bearing vertebrae.
Disc Prolapses are commonly associated with repeated flexion (forward bending) movements, which applies significant pressure on the discs compared to other movements in the body. Having said this, there are different stages of disc prolapses which include:
- Bulge = The displacement of the disc beyond the vetebral endplates.
- Protrusion = The nuclear matrial within the disc impinges on the annulus fibrosus, however, the disc remains intact.
- Extrusion = This is where the nucleus pulposus can emerge through the annulus fibrosus nevertheless, the posterior longitudinal ligament remains in tact.
- Suquestration = Where the nucleus pulposus emerges through all the barriers encasing it and leaks into the epidural space (essentially, is released outside the disc). As the nucleus pulposus is corrosive, it can stimulate the nerves around the spine resulting in symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbess amongst others.
– Here are some general advice that you can use:
- Heat or ice depending on the symptoms you are experiencing and the duration of the injury. Heat can help the muscles relax and reduce stiffness. Ice can help reduce pain and swelling that may be present.
- Exercises incorporating lumbar movement such as, touching toes, back extension, side flexion of the body and thoracic twists. This can increase synovial fluid, encourage correct motion and stretch the muscles.
To conclude, disc prolapses can be frustrating and painful however, besides the stigma associated with them, they are manageable as well as treatable.
If you are suffering from disc prolapse or any other issues, feel free to contact us by email, phone, contact form or our social medias.
The path to recovery begins with you,
M.Zia
~ Founder & Clinical Director, Specialist Physiotherapist, MSc Psychology Student ~
