Three Signs You Have a Herniated Disc
By Randi Morse
Because there are so many conditions that can cause lower back pain, it can be difficult for the average person to determine how serious their situation is. You may find you have lower back pain simply because you overworked your back the day before, or you may have a slipped disc. Here are three signs that will help you know if the pain you're feeling is due to a slipped disc.
Location of the Pain
A slipped disc is also sometimes called a lumbar herniated disc. Most patients dealing with a lumbar disc herniation report that they have a dull throbbing pain in their lower back. They also may feel a sharp pain that travels down through the legs. Patients may discover that they have a bit of numbness in their toes and may also feel that the pain is more on one side of the body than another. They may find that they feel better sitting still for long periods of time, but that when they get up they are in immense pain.
Quickly Developing Pain
Unlike some conditions that cause back pain to come on slowly, over time, those with a herniated disc generally say that the pain they're feeling came on very quickly. Some patients even say that their pain disappears within six weeks. Even though there is a small chance the pain will disappear on its own, it is a good idea to have an evaluation done by an experienced chiropractor. This is because, without proper evaluation, you can't be completely sure that a herniated disc is the problem. If you don't seek treatment, and the condition is more invasive and intensive than a lumbar herniated disc is, you could find yourself dealing with a great deal of pain and frustration. It's always a good idea to get recurring, or long-lasting, lower back pain examined.
You're in the Risk Range
While it is possible to get a herniated disc no matter what age you are, there are several factors that significantly raise the possibility of your back pain being caused by a herniated disc. If you are between the ages of 35 and 50, and male, you are much more likely to discover that your back pain is being caused by a herniated disc. While women may have slipped discs, men are almost twice as likely to suffer from this condition. If your job is physically demanding, and if you are overweight, you are also more susceptible to a slipped disc injury.
If these three signs resonated with you, and you're dealing with back pain, it's a good idea to seek the help of an experienced chiropractor. They will be able to thoroughly examine you and determine not only what is causing your lower back pain, but also what type of treatment to use in order to help relieve you of that pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Raleigh, N.C.