What are herniated discs?
Also known as "slipped", "ruptured", or "bulging" discs, herniated discs are typically when discs in the vertebrae tear in some way. This issue is most commonly seen in the low back, though they can occur anywhere along the vertebrae.
Symptoms include: back/neck pain, tingling/numbing sensations, and weakness. Disc herniation can be identified with x-rays, MRIs, and other forms of imaging.
Causes:
The most common cause of herniated disks is as simple as aging, which causes disc degeneration. Lifting heavy objects without proper back support, motor vehicle accidents, and excess body weight are also factors that can contribute to this condition.
How to treat herniated discs?
- Nonprescription pain medication - such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc), ibuprofen (Advil etc), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) are used to treat mild to moderate pain
- Neuropathic drugs - affects nerve impulses to decrease the pain
- Muscle relaxers - can be prescribed if you experience muscle spasms
- Cortisone injections - if pain does not improve with the oral medications