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What is a lumbar hernia?
Lumbar herniation is a structural damage to the intervertebral disc, in which part of its internal contents shifts beyond the anatomical norm and begins to press on the nerve roots. The disc consists of a fibrous ring and a soft nucleus, which works as a shock absorber. Under the influence of stress, a sedentary lifestyle, age-related changes or injuries, the fibrous ring loses its strength, cracks form, and the nucleus gradually protrudes.
This process is accompanied by local inflammation, swelling of the nervous tissue, pain syndrome and impaired mobility. Without treatment, a herniated lumbar spine can lead to persistent neurological changes, disability and the development of chronic pain.
Symptoms of lumbar herniation
Symptoms depend on the degree of disc protrusion and the severity of pressure on the nerve root. The most common symptoms include:
- low back pain of varying intensity — from aching to sharp with “shooting” sensations;
- numbness, tingling, decreased sensitivity in the leg or foot;
- increased pain when bending, sitting for a long time, lifting weights;
- back muscle tension, feeling of “stiffness” in the lower back;
- pain radiating to the buttock or back of the leg — a typical picture of radiculopathy;
- weakness in the leg, difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
Symptoms of a lumbar hernia always require professional evaluation, since in the early stages it is possible to completely stop the progression of the pathology.
What is dangerous lumbar hernia
An untreated lumbar disc herniation can cause a number of serious complications:
- chronic pain syndrome with frequent exacerbations;
- persistent disorders of sensitivity and movement in the lower extremities;
- muscle weakness, atrophy of certain muscle groups;
- significant limitation of mobility of the lumbar segment;
- formation of an incorrect gait and impaired movement mechanics;
- development of complications requiring surgical intervention.
In rare but critical cases, large hernias can compress the nerve structures of the “cauda equina”, which is accompanied by impaired function of the pelvic organs and requires emergency care. That is why timely treatment is the key to recovery and prevention of serious consequences.
Treatment of lumbar hernia
The modern approach at the Spine Center of the HBMedical clinic is based on comprehensive conservative therapy aimed at reducing pain, reducing nerve root compression, improving disc nutrition and restoring motor activity. Most patients avoid surgery with a properly selected program.
Main areas:
- drug therapy to relieve pain and inflammation;
- physiotherapy methods that improve blood circulation and reduce swelling of the root;
- traction therapy as a way to reduce pressure on the intervertebral disc;
- physical therapy to strengthen the muscle corset;
- local methods (taping, muscle relaxation, hardware techniques);
- correction of loads, working posture and motor mode.
The maintenance phase of treatment also plays an important role – it reduces the risk of repeated exacerbations.
Stages of treatment for lumbar hernia
-
Initial assessment
Comprehensive examination by a specialist, MRI analysis, neurological tests, assessment of posture and mobility of the lumbar segment. -
Acute pain relief
Pharmacotherapy, physiotherapy, local anti-inflammatory methods, delicate muscle relaxation techniques. -
Active rehabilitation phase
Traction therapy, vertical seated traction, individually selected exercises, work with deep back muscles, hardware treatment. -
Consolidation of the result and prevention of relapses
Formation of the correct motor stereotype, recommendations on lifestyle, correction of weight and loads, control examinations.
Traction therapy in the treatment of lumbar hernia
Traction therapy is a method of gradual, controlled stretching of the spine. During the procedure, the distance between the vertebrae increases, and the pressure on the affected disc and nerve root decreases. This contributes to:
- reducing pain in the lower back and leg;
- improving the nutrition of the intervertebral discs;
- relaxing the deep muscles;
- restoring the mobility of the lumbar spine.
The technique is used according to strictly defined indications and is excluded in case of acute inflammation, instability of the spinal segments or certain concomitant diseases. At the HBMedical Spine Center, traction therapy is part of an individual program formed after MRI analysis and examination by a specialist.
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