The vertebral column, which serves as the support of the human body has a chain of vertebrae separated by fibrocartilage intervertebral discs, that not only act as a cushion for the vertebrae but also allow movement between them and protect the spinal cord from mechanical stressors. These discs have a delicate nature which can sometimes lead to displacement among other dysfunctions. This article seeks to inform readers of the recognition and treatment of such disc dysfunctions.

What are intervertebral discs?

Intervertebral discs are small shock-absorbing structures that exist between the vertebrae.

They help in the even distribution of stress across the spinal column, acting as a takeoff point for the spinal nerves, and allowing a certain degree of movement between the vertebrae. The disc consists of two parts: the outer part (annulus fibrosus) made of tough fibrocartilage, and the inner part (nucleus pulposus) that is made of soft, gel-like material.

What is disc displacement?

Disc displacement- also known as slipped, herniated, or prolapsed disc happens when the annulus fibrosus gets a tear thereby allowing the inner substance to protrude outwards to press on the adjacent nerves.

It usually results in pain and weakness of the muscles served by that nerve. The most common site for disc displacement is the lumbar spine.

What causes a slipped disc?

There is no one answer to what causes a slipped disc, but there are various factors that can lead to it. They include the following:.

Ageing: The process of ageing is the natural decline of the structural components of the human body.
Gender: Men tend to have more cases of disc dysfunctions than women
Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles can lead to muscle weakness and poor flexibility predisposing one to disc dysfunction.
Heavy lifting: This puts a lot of pressure on the spinal cord.
Obesity: Increased body weight puts more stress on the spinal column.

Symptoms of disc displacement

The signs of disc displacement vary in intensity. In some cases, individuals may have no symptoms while in others, the symptoms may be severe. Below are some symptoms of a slipped disc:.

Sharp pain: A sharp pain in the lower back that can sometimes be transmitted down the buttock, thigh, or leg.
Numbness: A loss of sensation in the affected limb.
Weakness: The affected limb may become weaker than the others.
Tingling: A tingling sensation that runs down the affected limb.
Difficulty walking: The pain and numbness along the affected limb may make walking difficult or impossible

Diagnosis of disc displacement

Disc displacement can be tricky to diagnose as there are other conditions that share the same symptoms. Doctors usually take a medical history and perform a physical examination.

In some situations, they may recommend imaging tests like x-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of Disc Displacement

There are different approaches used to treat disc displacement. Some treatments focus on managing the symptoms while others aim at rehabilitating the affected area. Below are some ways in which disc displacement can be treated:.

Medication: Pain relief medication like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin may help in managing pain and reducing inflammation.
Physical therapy: Gradual stretching and strengthening exercises will help the affected muscles and reduce the possibility of future dysfunctions.
Spinal decompression: This is a non-surgical method that involves the use of a traction table that stretches and straightens the spine.
Surgery: Usually, surgery is the last resort when other methods fail. The surgical procedure involves getting rid of the displaced disc or part of it to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Chiropractic Care: The use of spinal adjustment and spinal manipulation methods used to restore normal range of motion, alleviate pain and pressure on the spine.

Prevention of Disc Displacement

While it might not always be possible to entirely prevent disc displacement since it occurs naturally with the ageing process, there are ways to reduce the risk of the condition. Some ways of preventing the occurrence of disc displacement include:.

Engaging in regular exercises: Exercise helps boost strength and flexibility of muscles.
Maintain a healthy diet: A healthy diet will ensure a healthy body and help in maintaining a healthy weight.
Sit upright: When sitting for extended periods, make sure your posture is upright and your back against the chair.
Avoid heavy lifting: When lifting heavy items, ensure to do it correctly and ensure the correct posture and muscle usage.
Ensure restful sleep: Getting adequate sleep ensures the body gets enough time to rest and recover.

Conclusion

Intervertebral disc displacement can cause significant pain and discomfort. However, there are numerous methods of both preventing and treating this condition.

It is essential to adjust our lifestyles to include healthy living habits like regular exercise and a balanced diet as this can significantly reduce the likelihood of this condition.