Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc

WHAT IS PROLAPSED INTERVERTEBRAL DISC?

Prolapsed intervertebral disc is the sudden or slowly progressing movement of one intervertebral disc backwards into the spinal channel. Therefore the pressure on the nerve roots can cause pain, weakness of movement, numbness or heightened sensation in the nerve root area.

HOW IS PROLAPSED INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DIAGNOSED?

In order to diagnose a prolapsed intervertebral disc is a thorough neurological examination. It can help to exclude a disturbance of the blood supply or circulation of the legs and enables the doctor to draw conclusions as to the location, grade of the prolapse and the extent of the neurological involvement. An x-ray helps in diagnosis as it enables the doctor to look at the bone structure of the vertebral column. An MRI is the most definitive scan as it can show how many levels are involved, the size of each prolapsed disc, and the extent of the nerve root impingement.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

One of the causes is the weakening or a tearing of the tissue ring due to over straining of the vertebral column. This usually is caused by wear and tear.  Other risk factors for prolapsed intervertebral discs are obesity and pregnancy.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS?

Conservative treatments include bed-rest, medication, injections, physiotherapy to strengthen the back muscles. Sometimes surgery is required when the disc prolapse causes signs of paralysis.