Herniated disc means the protrusion of the disc in the spine. It is essentially the same situation as a bulging disc, which can be an extremely painful condition. Its occurrence is manifested by a herniated disc pain that is usually felt on the back or thigh and leg area. A herniated disc is more common in the lumbar area, than any other area in the back.

As a person ages, his or her disc tends to become brittle, dry, and have less of a cushiony existence. Once the disc has weakened, the outer part is prone to tearing or any damage. The internal substance of the disc can push through the tear resulting in a herniated disc. As this happens, the person can experience herniated disc pain. Herniated disc is far more common in people aged 30 and over.

Herniated disc pain can be felt at the lower back part down to the legs and feet, which often throws sufferers initially- as the pain is not necessary localized to the problem area. However generally, the pain is felt in the one side only. The pain will be concentrated depending on which side the weak or damaged disc is located. The intensity of the herniated disc pain also varies on the pressure put upon the nerve by the bulging disc. Most patients under this condition complain of spreading pain over their buttocks that goes down one thigh down to their calf. Others experience the herniated disc pain on both legs, while some in some cases the legs can feel weak, numb and have a tingling sensation.

A herniated disc ia also more common in patients who work at their desks or computers for extended periods of time without mobility. In this instance to reduce the amount of herniated disc pain, or to minimize its intensity, try shifting positions and perhaps changing your chair, and making sure to take a break at least once every hour and walk around your home or office. You may discover that supporting yourself up with both your hands while sitting down alleviates the pain. Shifting weight from one side is also helpful. A herniated disc is essentially an alignment problem- the spine becomes adjusted to an unnatural position and you get the bulging disc resulting in herniated disc pain

Physicians test their patients to see if they are really suffering from a herniated disc by asking relevant questions, doing some thorough physical examinations, and diagnostic testing like x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer tomography scan (CT). Medications may be prescribed to ease the pain- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are often the most effective, specifically 'Medrol Dose Pack'. Medication is not always effective on its own, and often a rehabilitation course of strengthening exercises can help the patient to correct the poor alignment and build up the muscles surrounding the problematic areas. Failing such treatment, special massages can be effective, chiropractic care, postural changes and the at the utmost last resort, surgery.

Surgeries are only recommended when all the other non-invasive treatments have been exhausted and if severe pain is still present after six weeks or more. However not all patients are eligible for surgery on a herniated disc, it depends entirely on the severity of the condition, and the health of the patient, and other important factors.

Conclusion

Herniated disc pain varies from mild, moderate to extremely agonizing- and obviously pain is a hard thing to estimate unless you are the person experiencing it. Apropos medications and treatments may be readily available- however these may not be the most effective for everyone. It may take some time to discover which style of treatment of the herniated disc is more effective. However rest assured that with the advancements in technologies and medical science that putting up with herniated disc pain is truly a thing of the past.