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Normal |
Abnormal |
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- The spine contains numerous bones
called vertebrae that provide support for the body, and
protect the spinal cord. Nerves from the spinal cord
pass outward from nearly all levels of the vertebrae.
Between the vertebrae are "cushions" called discs.
These discs act like shock absorbers for the spine.
- If a disc "slips" out of place or
ruptures, it is called herniation. When a disc
herniates, it may cause problems with alignment of the
spine, putting pressure (pinching) on nerves radiating from
the spine. The cervical (neck) spine and the lumbar
(lower back) area are the two most common locales for
Herniated Disc.
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- Pain, numbness, tingling, or
weakness. Symptom location in the body depends on where the
disc is located along the spine. For example,
herniation of cervical (neck) discs result in problems in
the arms. In the lower back at level L5-S1, the pain
goes down the buttocks, then down the side of the leg, and
into the foot.
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- Strain or injury, e.g., whiplash,
sports, or lifting at
work
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- Neurological examination
- MRI or CT scan
- CT myelography -- dye injected into
the spinal column followed by CT
scan
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- Cervical disc herniation -- bed
rest, possible neck traction, followed by neck
immobilization with a collar. If these fail, surgical
removal of the disc may be needed.
- Lumbar (lower back) --
anti-inflammatories and/or muscle relaxants. Physical
therapy may help some. Persistent pain may require surgical
removal
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Warning
- If you have these symptoms and develop weakness (i.e., paralysis) in any part of the body, or have another neurological defects (for example, you have bowel incontinence), you need immediate medical treatment.
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