Intervertebral hernia is a disease in which the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc breaks and the nucleus exits. To understand the essence of the disease, it is worth knowing the anatomical features of the spine.
It consists of vertebrae, which are connected by special oval-shaped discs. They consist of an elastic "pulpous" core, which performs a cushioning function, as well as a fibrous ring, which is strong enough and prevents protrusion of the central part under body weight.
Certain pathologies of the spine (for example, scoliosis, osteochondrosis or subluxation) cause a decrease in the elasticity of the intervertebral discs, which becomes the cause of the protrusion - a hernia. At the same time, nerve fibers that exit the spine are compressed, which leads to pain.
Intervertebral hernia: types
Depending on the size, this pathology occurs in the form of prolapse (protrusion is 2-3 mm), protrusion (hernia size is 4-15 mm), as well as in the form of extrusion, which in the form of a drop extends beyond the intervertebral disc.
The causes of this pathology
Among the etiological factors that can provoke the development of intervertebral hernia, the following can be distinguished:
- inherited structural features of the spine ;
- weak muscle corset;
- infectious diseases;
- incorrect posture;
- diseases of the spinal column, especially osteochondrosis.
Intervertebral hernia can also occur due to sudden movements, excessive physical exertion, back injuries and other negative factors.
Most often, this pathology develops at the age of 20-55 years. Among older people, this lesion of the spine is less common, since their gelatinous nucleus loses its elasticity.
Intervertebral hernia: symptoms
This disease is accompanied by a narrowing of the spinal canal, which leads to compression of the nerve roots. At the same time, the surrounding tissues swell and become inflamed. The patient experiences pain, which is localized not only in the place of the hernia, but also along the nerves emerging from the spinal cord. In addition, pain can occur in areas of the body that are innervated by the affected roots. Patients also complain of a lack of coordination of movements and a change in muscle strength.
It is worth noting that most often such pathological changes in the spine occur in the lower back, although they can also develop in the cervical region.
Intervertebral hernia: treatment methods
Therapy of this disease is carried out in two ways: conservatively and by surgery.
Conservative methods are aimed at reducing pain, swelling and inflammation, restoring the functions of the spine, sensitivity and muscle strength of the affected areas.
Treatment of intervertebral hernia without surgery involves the use of reflex methods - acupuncture, vacuum therapy, pharmacopuncture, etc.
The operation is performed with the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment. In this case, a pathologically altered disk is partially or completely removed.