Herniated discs: causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment options

A herniated disc is a possible cause of one of the most common health complaints—back pain. It occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear or crack in the outer layer, often pressing on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, tingling or muscle weakness. Herniated discs mostly develop in the lower back (lumbar spine), followed by the neck (cervical spine).

Herniation can occur due to age-related degeneration, repetitive heavy lifting, excess body weight, smoking and genetic predisposition.

A herniated disc may develop gradually or occur suddenly. A lumbar herniated disc may cause lower back or buttock pain, sciatica, that radiates down one leg. People may also experience numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or weakness in the affected leg or foot.

A cervical herniated disc may produce similar symptoms in the neck, shoulder, arm or hand. Some herniated discs cause no symptoms at all. People must seek emergency medical attention if back pain is accompanied by difficulty urinating, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, or rapidly worsening leg weakness.

Many people recover from herniated discs without a surgical treatment. In some cases, the body naturally reabsorbs part of the herniated disc material, reducing irritation of surrounding nerves. Acupuncture may help relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve mobility. Traditional herbal medicine may also help manage symptoms. Together, these therapies can help people return to their daily activities with greater comfort. Surgical treatment may be considered when severe pain persists despite appropriate nonsurgical care or significant neurological impairment develops.

Regular exercise, strengthening the abdominal and back muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and practicing safe lifting techniques can help support spinal health and reduce unnecessary strain.

—Yeung H. Kwon, L.Ac, OMD, Optum HCC Leisure World