Schmorl's hernia is a pathological change in the intervertebral discs, in which aching pains are noted. In some situations, Schmorl's hernia is a congenital pathology, but in most cases it is acquired in nature, namely after an injury or from incorrect posture.
Small hernias are often asymptomatic, with a certain indentation of the disc in the spine over time.
Schmorl's hernia has a second name - Schmorl's cartilaginous nodes. Unlike intervertebral hernia, Schmorl's hernia does not fall out of the spinal canal, therefore it is not a dangerous disease. Only the consequences that a hernia can cause if the load is distributed improperly are dangerous.
Causes of Schmorl's hernia: large loads on the spine; uneven and rapid growth of the child; genetic location and feature of the vertebrae; incorrect posture; microtrauma.
What is Schmorl's hernia and what does it threaten?
Schmorl's hernia is divided into several types according to their location: anterior, posterior, central and lateral. Central and lateral hernias are less of a concern, or not at all, which cannot be said about the front and back. With the location of hernias in front and behind, this greatly complicates the movement of the patient, as it is accompanied by pain.
If Schmorl's hernia was detected, treatment is not particularly required. The pain noted in this case may be the result of compression of the nerve endings of the spine. But there is still a risk that a disk failure may occur, which can lead to dysfunction in the future.
With a blow, as well as an improperly selected load, there is a risk of a compression fracture if there is a pathology such as Schmorl's hernia. In this case, the treatment is one - complete rest is necessary.
This pathology is usually acquired in adolescence or childhood. Basically, there are many small hernias, which increase with progression. The hernia is diagnosed with an X-ray machine, MRI and CT.
Symptoms There are no specific symptoms of the disease, only pain during physical exertion, as well as when sitting and standing, is noted.
Schmorl's hernia: treatment
If the patient is unwell, pain medications can be prescribed, as well as physiotherapy.
If there is a risk of complications, the doctor prescribes a fluoroscopy, and complete rest and the implementation of medical prescriptions are also required.
When confirming the diagnosis - Schmorl's hernia, treatment is carried out using therapeutic exercises, and massage is also used. The patient is given an extract of the spinal column. With its help, expand the interdisc space, and also strengthen the muscle corset.
Surgical treatment is prescribed only in the most extreme cases.
In any case, the sooner this pathology is detected, the faster the patient will be able to get rid of the inconvenience that causes pain. With early diagnosis and correctly prescribed therapy, and if the disk is not injured, a complete recovery is possible, since Schmorl's hernia is not a disease, but a diagnosis.