Disc prolapse and sciatica

Introduction

The intervertebral disc is responsible for the attachments of vertebral bodies to each other, providing flexibility and absorption applied to the spinal column. The disc prolapse abnormal positioning in the spine due to disc degeneration, injuries to spine.

Etiology of disc degeneration and prolapse

Several factors, including genetic factors and changes in hydration and colleagues, are believed to play a roll in the development of degenerative disc disease.

Pain that occurs within the distribution and path of the sciatic nerve is most frequently due to comprehension of the nerve within the spinal canal. This most commonly occurs secondary to disc herniation in the middle years from 20 through to 60.

Disc termination

The discs in the Lumbar spine are the soft tissue that lies between the vertebrae.

Incidence

As most patients with back problem find, these are exception that 80% of adults will experience of their life. Back pain is much more common than sciatica, but bouts of sciatic are also exceptionally common and many people experience these.

Evaluation of sciatica

When a patient sees the doctor for symptoms of sciatica, detailed evaluation is required. This will include a neurological examination of the legs checking for sensations, strength and any changes in references.

Most often the diagnosis of sciatica is based on the history and examination findings. X-ray may be performed most often an X-ray will not given an obvious clue as to the cause of the sciatica.

The newer investigation includes CT and MRI Scan. These scan demonstrate the disc in detail, and the MRI Scan will also demonstrate the nerve.

Treatment-non surgical care

Most Patients desire relief from pain when they have severe sciatica. This can be achieved using a number of medications.

Recovery from surgery

When standard discectomy is performed most patient leave hospital 24-48 hours after surgery. Despite this many are able to return to work and driving at 2-3 weeks.

Alternative surgical treatment

There was been much discussion in the media of alternative surgery. There is always entering laser assisted procedure. Many such procedures have been tried in the spine.