Lumbar Disc Herniation

What is Lumbar Disc Herniation?

→ Lumbar disc herniation is a condition in which the soft inner material of an intervertebral disc in the lower back protrudes or slips out through a tear in the outer layer. This can compress nearby spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness, often radiating to the legs. It is a common cause of lower back pain and sciatica.

Causes

→ Degeneration of intervertebral discs

→ Heavy lifting or sudden strain

→ Poor posture

→ Repetitive movements

→ Aging

→ Trauma or injury

Symptoms

→ Lower back pain

→ Radiating pain to legs (sciatica)

→ Numbness or tingling

→ Muscle weakness

→ Pain aggravated by sitting or bending

→ Difficulty in movement

Diagnosis

→ Clinical examination by doctor

→ Neurological assessment

→ Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test

→ MRI (most effective)

→ CT scan / X-ray (if required)

Treatment Management

→ Physiotherapy (core strengthening and stretching)

→ Pain relief medications

→ Rest and activity modification

→ Heat or cold therapy

→ Posture correction

→ Epidural steroid injections

→ Surgery (in severe or persistent cases)