Signs You Have a Herniated Disc

Dealing with extreme, consistent back pain can be frustrating, especially when you do not know the underlying cause. One common cause of back pain is a herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when the soft rubbery discs between the vertebrae slip out of place. In this blog post, we will explore some symptoms that indicate you may have a herniated disc.

Intense and Persistent Pain: One of the main indicators of a herniated disc is intense and persistent pain. You may feel pain in various areas of your body such as your neck, back, legs, and arms. The pain can be sharp, shooting, or consistent ache that worsens with movement or certain movements.

Numbness or Tingling Sensations: If you feel tingling sensations or numbness in your arm, legs, or other body parts, you may have a herniated disc. The herniated disc may press against a nerve, causing these sensations.

Muscle Weakness: A herniated disc can put pressure on nearby nerves which affects muscle control and thus results in muscle weakness. This can make it difficult to lift objects or cause you to stumble while walking.

Limited Range of Motion: Another sign of a herniated disc is having a limited range of motion. This is because the pain can be debilitating when performing certain movements like twisting or bending. A limited range of motion can significantly decrease your quality of life and impact your daily living activities.

Increased Pain with Certain Activities: Some activities that involve bending, twisting, or lifting can cause increased pain for those with a herniated disc. Additionally, sitting for a prolonged period of time, sneezing, or coughing can intensify the pain you experience.

Pain that Worsens at Night: Many people report experiencing worse pain while trying to go to bed at night. This can make it challenging to find a comfortable position to sleep and disrupt your sleep patterns.

Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction: In rare cases, a severe herniated disc can compress the nerves responsible for bowel and bladder control. If you experience sudden changes in bowel or bladder function, such as incontinence or difficulty urinating, seek immediate medical attention.

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