Slipped disc treatment

Slipped Disc is a catch-all phrase, with many variants

The condition is often described as ruptured disc or herniated disc. It is most common in the lower back but may also occur in the upper back or in the neck.

The disc acts as shock absorber between the vertebrae of the spine. It is like a do-nut with a tough outer membrane and a gel-like interior. If the outer sheath is damaged, (by accident), or worn, (by age), the gel inside can begin to bulge out of its sheath and put pressure on the nerves or on the spinal cord.

The symptoms of a "slipped" disc are pain and numbness in the legs or arms.

The most common symptoms are known as "sciatica" which causes pain radiating down the legs, due to pressure on the sciatic nerve in the lower back. Often, the pain can be totally debilitating, leaving the patient unable to work or even sit or stand.

Diagnosis is done by the physician, based on the overall symptoms, often with the aid of a CT Scan, a MRI scan or a myelogram, to permit the viewing of the exact condition and location of the problem.

Treatment of a slipped disc usually begins with rest, cold compresses, and analgesic medication. Normally, a disc will heal itself over a period of some months.

Surgery for a slipped disc is only appropriate for about 10% of patients.

The long term care for slipped disc begins with the correct diagnosis as to the exact location and cause of the disc problem, followed by a comprehensive program of therapy, exercises and rehabilitation. Proper physical activity and general physical fitness are the best forms of long term slipped disc treatment.

For a careful diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment program, Health Services International has been sending many patients to Cuba to be treated by some of the finest orthopedic specialists in the world. There is always hope. Don’t wait any longer, act now!