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.
The first thing that is done when you go to see your doctor is the confirmation of the diagnosis. This is done through taking a history of your condition and conducting a physical examination. Symptoms that are likely to suggest this problem include pain on the lower back and one of the lower limbs. The pain is aggravated by walking since the pressure on the nerves increases.
Radiological images are the most important investigations that are used here. The most important are the CT scan (computed tomography scan) and MRI (magnetic resonance images). The former is chosen when the problem is thought to be related to bony structures. Such may include vertebral fractures or bone tumors. The latter, on the other hand, is used in case the problem is through to originate from soft tissues. Overall, it is the most sensitive.
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 is conducted by fixing a harness over the pelvis and the lower limbs and applying a gentle pulling force. The force is generated by a computer and applied over twenty to twenty five sessions. The result of this pull is an increase in the size of the inter-vertebral joint allowing the disc to slip back into its anatomical position. The exercise can be safely conducted in an outpatient clinic.
Traction is largely a safe procedure since it is non-invasive. The force that is required is computer-generated which helps in reducing the risk of injury to the spinal cord. There are, however, some situations in which having this procedure carries a significant risk. For instance, if it is performed in persons that have recent fractures or have metallic limb implants the risk of aggravating the injuries is high. It should be postponed to an appropriate time or alternatives used.
Decompression surgery is usually reserved for conditions that have failed to respond to conservative treatment modalities. It entails opening up the joint and returning the disc back to its position. Bear in mind that there are complications associated with this kind of operation. They include bleeding, infections, injury to nerves and spinal instability in some cases. The operation will be done if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Herniation of inter-vertebral discs is a problem that contributes to significant discomfort. It also greatly affects the productivity of affected persons. Many of the cases respond to conservative treatment modalities and just a few require surgery. You need to have a discussion with your doctor so as to determine the method that is most effective in your case.
The first thing that is done when you go to see your doctor is the confirmation of the diagnosis. This is done through taking a history of your condition and conducting a physical examination. Symptoms that are likely to suggest this problem include pain on the lower back and one of the lower limbs. The pain is aggravated by walking since the pressure on the nerves increases.
Radiological images are the most important investigations that are used here. The most important are the CT scan (computed tomography scan) and MRI (magnetic resonance images). The former is chosen when the problem is thought to be related to bony structures. Such may include vertebral fractures or bone tumors. The latter, on the other hand, is used in case the problem is through to originate from soft tissues. Overall, it is the most sensitive.
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 is conducted by fixing a harness over the pelvis and the lower limbs and applying a gentle pulling force. The force is generated by a computer and applied over twenty to twenty five sessions. The result of this pull is an increase in the size of the inter-vertebral joint allowing the disc to slip back into its anatomical position. The exercise can be safely conducted in an outpatient clinic.
Traction is largely a safe procedure since it is non-invasive. The force that is required is computer-generated which helps in reducing the risk of injury to the spinal cord. There are, however, some situations in which having this procedure carries a significant risk. For instance, if it is performed in persons that have recent fractures or have metallic limb implants the risk of aggravating the injuries is high. It should be postponed to an appropriate time or alternatives used.
Decompression surgery is usually reserved for conditions that have failed to respond to conservative treatment modalities. It entails opening up the joint and returning the disc back to its position. Bear in mind that there are complications associated with this kind of operation. They include bleeding, infections, injury to nerves and spinal instability in some cases. The operation will be done if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Herniation of inter-vertebral discs is a problem that contributes to significant discomfort. It also greatly affects the productivity of affected persons. Many of the cases respond to conservative treatment modalities and just a few require surgery. You need to have a discussion with your doctor so as to determine the method that is most effective in your case.
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