Back pains which radiate to legs and toes or sometimes along with numbness and weakness are common signs of Herniated Nucleus Pulposus, which does not occur in elderly only but young people also have a possibility of suffering from the disease.
Spinal column is made up of bones called vertebrae which are stacked up on one another. Each vertebrae consists of round rubbery discs located in between them. The discs act as shock absorbers for spinal bones and provide flexibility during movements of the body. The discs are round like small cushions with the outer layer made up of annulus and the inside is filled with jelly-like substance, called nucleus.
Herniated disc also called a ruptured disc occurs when nucleus inside the disc is pushed out of the annulus into the spinal canal and puts pressure on the spinal nerves which can cause severe back-pain, weakness of the legs and foot along with tingling and numbness sensations.
Herniated disc occurs over time in elderlies, however, people of all ages can be at risk of herniated disc from accidents that may injure the spinal cord and result in displacement of the disc.
Treatment for Herniated disc varies from physio-therapies and injections in the spinal cord to reduce pain that radiates to the legs. Surgery is also an option to treat Herniated disc, however it depends on the severity of the displacement.
Endoscopic surgery is commonly performed for this condition which is a minimally invasive procedure that results in a quicker recovery time and less pain than the traditional open surgery. If severe back pain arises and gradually develops into numbness and weakness in the legs that disables you to carry on with your daily activities, it is highly advised to visit a specialist to make a proper diagnosis and plan an appropriate treatment.
For more information, contact
Spine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call 02-7340000 or Ext. 5500
English Hotline: (+66)8-522 38888
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