WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
A slipped disk--also known as a herniated or prolapsed
disk--occurs when the ligaments that support and surround the
flat, platelike cushions between the vertebrae in the spine
begin to weaken. A back strain may cause one of these ligaments
to break, allowing the disk material to squeeze out from
between the vertebra and press on nearby nerves. Slipped disks
become increasingly common with age.
Causes
The ligaments may give way under
the stress of regular lifting, or tear open during a sudden
injury. The odds of this happening increase when you are
overweight.
Signs/Symptoms
A slipped disk in the lower back
can put pressure on the sciatic (sigh-AT-ik) nerve, causing
sciatica--sharp, shooting pain from the buttock down the back
of the leg to the foot. You may notice weakness, numbness, or
loss of muscle strength in the affected leg. If a disk
slips in the neck, the pain will get worse when you move your
neck. It may also extend across the shoulder or down one arm.
Your arm may feel weak or numb, or may lose muscle
strength.
Care
Your doctor may prescribe pain medications or
muscle-relaxing drugs. Physical therapy will help to strengthen
your muscles and prevent future strains. Surgery may be
necessary if a disk has ruptured.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
If your doctor prescribes medication to control pain
or to relax the muscles in your back, take it exactly as
directed.
-
It is important that you rest your back and give the
irritated nerves and muscles a chance to recover. Your
doctor may suggest you rest in bed to take the weight off
your back. You may read or watch TV, but you should get up
only to go to the bathroom and eat
meals.
-
Use a firm mattress or put a piece of plywood between
the mattress and box spring. Don't use a water bed; it will
not support your back correctly. When resting or sleeping,
lie on your side with your knees slightly
bent.
-
For the first day or two, apply ice to your back to
help relieve pain. Put the ice in a plastic bag and place
the bag on your back. You can also have someone rub the ice
directly over your back 4 times a day for 30
minutes.
-
After 2 days, applying heat to your back may help
relieve pain. For 30 minutes every 3 or 4 hours, use an
electric heating pad set on low, or a hot water bottle
wrapped in a towel.
-
After your period of bed rest, limit your activities
until your symptoms improve; then gradually resume your
normal activities. Avoid motions and activities that cause
back strain, including heavy exercise and lifting, or
sitting in a slumped position.
-
After you feel better, do exercises, such as walking
and swimming, that will strengthen your back muscles. Avoid
exercises, such as rowing and jogging, that will put stress
on your back Check with your doctor before starting any
exercises or sporting activities.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
The pain in your back, legs, or arms gets worse or
fails to improve with treatment.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You develop weakness or numbness in your legs or
arms.
-
You lose control of your bladder or
bowels.
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