Nerve impingement and a herniated disc are two closely associated spinal issues, identified by pain and inflammation in the one or more of the disks along the spinal column.
The spinal column is made of bones known as vertebrae, between these vertebrae lie spinal discs. These discs have a tough exterior yet contain a soft, gel-like center. When this softer gel substance pushes out through a small tear in the disc’s exterior, it is called a herniated or ruptured disc.
When any of these symptoms are present and persistent you must seek out medical attention. Our physical therapists can work with you to alleviate the pain and build up strength in the affected area.
When a patient is suffering from a herniated disc, the disc itself is not painful, but rather the gel material that is leaking out of the disc, will pinch or irritate a nearby nerve. This pain will radiate to other parts of the body, such as from the lower back, down the leg, or from the neck down the arm. The most common symptoms are:
- Arm and leg pain, depending on where the herniated disc is located.
- Numbness and/or tingling in the body part which corresponds with the affected nerve(s).
- Weakness in the muscles or tendons which correspond with the affected nerve(s).
