Lower back pain, leg pain, and muscle pain can all be excruciating herniated disc symptoms. Many people who develop a herniated disc also experience a sensation of numbness or tingling. Leg weakness is another common symptom.
Two main types of pain that are caused by a herniated disc are various forms of leg pain and nerve pain. Muscle spasms and deep muscle pain are reported from many sufferers of this type of injury. A sensation of pins and needles, and the development of weakness in the lower extremities are considered common nerve related herniated disc symptoms.
Many herniated disc symptoms make the bearer feel as if he or she is experiencing electric shocks. While the lower back and extremities are most often affected when this occurs, upper regions, such as the neck and arms, can also undergo this shocking pain.
Most herniated disc symptoms depend upon the location of the hernia. The size of the affected area can also influence the severity of pain experienced. Patients often note a varying degree of pain depending on the activities they engage in. Sitting may be painful for some patients, while walking proves to be excruciating for others. Relaxing the spine through bed rest or walking are usually recommended to alleviate these symptoms.
Cases of herniated disc may vary greatly from one patient to another. Some patients will experience constant pain that never recedes, while others may report intermittent pain. Most patients experience pain in a single leg, though some sufferers may have both legs affected. While some patients who experience mild pain may live with a herniated disc for years, those who face more painful symptoms and frequent occurrences may require surgery in order to return to functioning normally.
Less common herniated disc symptoms also exist. One extreme symptom involves the loss of bowel or bladder control. Also known as cauda equina syndrome, this condition occurs when the nerves at the base of the spine are squeezed. This condition is regarded as a medical emergency, and typically requires an immediate surgical procedure to rectify the problem.
Diagnosis of a herniated disc is usually made through a physical examination. If a patient exhibits herniated disc symptoms and responds to physical stimulus with pain, the condition is typically present. Magnetic resonance imaging could also be required. After diagnosis, a treatment plan is usually determined between the patient and his or her physician. Treatments may include rest, physical therapy, medical or natural pain remedies, or surgery.
