Top 5 Early Signs You May Have a Slipped Disc

A slipped disc is also referred to as a herniated or prolapsed disc, and it is a condition whereby the soft inner core of a spinal disc bulges through the tougher outer ring. This can cause inflammation of nerves and may cause a number of symptoms. It is important to note that these are signs that should be looked at with a view to preventing and treating the condition as early as possible..

Persistent Back Pain

The common symptom of back pain due to a slipped disc is localised pain in the affected region. This pain is often worsened by any form of movement, prolonged sitting or standing, or when one is lifting something up. The pain may be described as sharp or burning and is localised in the lower back; however, it may also be felt in the neck or upper back, depending on the location of the disc.

Radiating Pain to Limbs

When the disc herniates, it may compress the nerves, and this may cause pain that is experienced in other parts of the body. For instance, a slipped disc in the lower back may lead to sciatica, which is a sharp pain that starts in the lower back and goes down to the legs. Similarly, cervical disc herniation may cause a sensation of pain in the shoulders and arms.

Numbness or Tingling Sensations Nerve compression as a result of a slipped disc may cause numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling in the areas served by the affected nerves. These sensations are usually experienced in the arms, hands, legs, or feet, depending on the part of the disc that is affected. Such symptoms indicate that the nerves are not transmitting signals as they should.

Muscle Weakness 

This is because nerves that are affected can cause muscle weakness in the areas that they supply. This may manifest as difficulty in lifting objects, dropping things, or a general difficulty in holding things. In the lower body, it may cause difficulties in walking or maintaining balance in the lower part of the body.

Pain Aggravated by Specific Movements

There are some movements that are likely to aggravate the pain associated with a slipped disc. Some activities that may worsen the pain include bending, twisting, coughing, or sneezing. This is because during these actions, there is pressure on the affected disc and the nerves around it.

Seeking Expert Care

If you are having any of these slipped disc symptoms, it is advisable to consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. A spinal deformity specialist doctor in UK, Mehta Spine is a spinal clinic that offers treatment for spinal conditions.The clinic is run by Mr. Jwalant Mehta, a spine deformity surgeon, and provides conservative and surgical management. In line with its patient care, Mehta Spine offers care that is individualised to the patient. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please go to Mehta Spine.