Vital Information On Treating Herniated Disc Nyc Patients Need To Know

By Randy Routlen


Inter-vertebral joints transmit the force coming through the spine. In the absence of the shock-absorbing inter-vertebral discs, they are at risk of fractures. Occasionally, the discs may be displaced from their position causing spine instability and impinging on the structures in their vicinity. If they have been diagnosed with a herniated disc nyc residents need to understand a number of things about the condition.

When you visit your doctor, they will first evaluate you to determine that indeed you have a problem with your disc or if you have an alternative diagnosis. This is done through history taking and conducting a physical examination. The symptoms that characterize herniation include constant back pain that is aggravated by walking, numbness and a tingling sensation in a lower limb.

Imaging studies are almost always a requirement of the diagnostic process. CT scans and MRI images are the most important forms of images that are used here. CT scans will be necessary if the herniation is thought to be the result of problems relating to the bony structures. This will include, for example, a vertebral body fracture or a bone tumor. The MRI is preferred if there is a need to assess soft tissues around the disc.

The methods that are used in treating this problem are classified as conservative or invasive options. The former involve the manipulation of the spine without opening it so as to restore anatomical integrity. Examples of techniques that may be used here include chiropractic, traction and physical therapies among others. The former involves the restoration of the disc position by opening up the affected joint.

Traction involves the application of a pulling force on the spine. This is done through a harness that is fastened around the pelvis and the lower limbs. The forces creates increases the space between adjacent vertebral bodies which allows the prolapsed disc to fall back into its position. The entire exercise is done in an outpatient setting and lasts about one hour. About 20 sessions are required in the average patient.

Traction is generally a safe procedure. The force that is used is usually computer generated to minimize the risk of spinal injury. There are several conditions in which caution should be exercised or alternative methods used. One of them is the presence of fractures among candidates undergoing the procedure. Fractures are likely to be aggravated and healing delayed due to the pulling force. This problem may also be encountered in candidates who have implants or osteoporotic bones.

A decision to have surgery will be made if the conservative options fail to yield the expected results. During the surgery, the joint space will be opened and the disc manually returned to its position. Components of the vertebral body may be excised to create room. It is important to remember that the operation is associated with a number of risks similar to other major operations. They include bleeding, injury to nerves and infections among others.

Disc prolapse is a complication that causes chronic back pain. It contributes to a significant production in productivity whether in the workplace or in school. Fortunately, most of the cases can be successfully managed using conservative methods such as traction, physical therapy or acupressure. Surgery is used for those that fail to respond to these options.




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