Do I Have A Herniated Disk?

Do you have pain in your buttocks, thigh and calf, and maybe in part of the foot as well (especially when you cough, sneeze or move into certain positions)?

Do you have most pain in your shoulder and arm (especially when you cough, sneeze, or move into certain positions)?

Do you have weak muscles, causing you to stumble or affect the ability to lift or hold items?

Do you experience numbness or tingling in the body part served by the affected nerves?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a herniated disk. A herniated disk is a problem with one of the disks (rubbery cushions) that is located between the individual bones that stack to make your spine. A herniated disk can occur in any part of the spine and can irritate a nearby nerve. The condition can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm or leg. However, many people do not experience pain from a herniated disk. Also, surgery is often not needed. Luckily, in your case, there seem to be no reasons to be worried.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs related to a herniated disk. A spinal disk has a soft center encased in a rubbery exterior. A herniated disk occurs when some of the soft center pushes through a tear in the rubbery exterior. Most herniated disks happen in the lower back, but they can also occur in the neck. Symptoms depend on where the disk is pressing on a nerve. Usually, this affects one side of the body. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor and to follow his recommendations.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have a herniated disk. Some people with a herniated disk have no symptoms. They don’t know about it unless it shows up on a spinal image. It’s highly important to seek medical attention if neck or back pain travels down your arm or leg, and/or if you experience numbness, tingling or weakness. To help prevent a herniated disk, it’s important to exercise, maintain a good posture, and maintain a healthy weight.