Symptoms of lumbar, cervical and thoracic disc herniation and how to prevent

The main symptom of herniated discs is pain in the spine, which usually appears in the region where the hernia is located, which may be in the cervical, lumbar or thoracic spine, for example. In addition, the pain can follow the path of nerves in the region, so it can even radiate to more distant locations, reaching legs or arms.

Other symptoms that may appear in herniated discs are tingling, numbness, stitches or, in the most severe cases, even decreased strength or urinary incontinence. However, it must be remembered that herniated discs do not always cause symptoms or may cause only mild discomfort.

The herniated disc arises when the intervertebral disc and its gelatinous center, which act as a type of spinal buffer, leave the correct location, causing the compression of nerves in the region. Treatment is done with medication to relieve pain, physical therapy or, in some cases, surgery. See more about herniated disc.

Main symptoms

Symptoms of herniated discs vary according to their location, and the most common are:

1. Symptoms of cervical disc herniation

In this type, the pain is located in the upper part of the spine, more specifically in the neck. Nerve compression can cause pain to radiate to the shoulder or arm. Other symptoms include:

• Difficulty performing movements with the neck; Numbness or tingling sensation in the shoulder, arm, elbow, hand or fingers; Decreased strength in one of the arms.

Symptoms of herniated discs may differ from one individual to another, as it depends on their location and intensity of compression. These symptoms can appear suddenly, disappear spontaneously and return at unpredictable intervals. But they can also be constant and long lasting.

2. Symptoms of lumbar disc herniation

When this type of hernia occurs, severe back pain is common. But other symptoms are:

• Pain along the path of the sciatic nerve that runs from the spine to the buttock, thigh, leg and heel; There may be weakness in the legs; Difficulty raising the foot leaving the heel on the floor; Alteration in the functioning of the bowel or bladder, by compression of nerves.

The amount and intensity of symptoms depends on the location and intensity of the nerve involvement. Generally, the loss of strength indicates a serious alteration, which must be quickly evaluated by the orthopedist or neurosurgeon.

3. Symptoms of thoracic disc herniation

Herniated thoracic disc is less common, occurring in only 5% of cases, but when it appears it can cause:

• Pain in the central region of the spine that radiates to the ribs; Pain to breathe or perform movements with the chest; Pain or alteration of sensitivity in the belly, back or legs; Urinary incontinence.

When these symptoms that indicate herniated discs appear, it is recommended to see an orthopedist or neurosurgeon to make an assessment and order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs or spine tomography, for example.

Depending on the results of the exams, treatment can be done with physiotherapy or surgery, according to the needs of each person and the severity of the problem. Understand how the treatment for thoracic disc herniation is done.

Who is at higher risk of herniated disc

The main cause for the development of a herniated disc is the progressive wear of the intervertebral discs that are found between every two vertebrae of the spine. Thus, this problem is more common in people over 45 years of age, due to the natural aging process.

In addition, herniated discs are also more frequent in workers who need to lift heavy objects frequently, such as construction workers. People who experience spinal trauma, who make repetitive efforts without guidance, or who suffer from inflammation or infection in the spine are also more likely to develop this disorder.

How to prevent herniated discs

Most cases of herniated discs are caused by the person's genetic predisposition, but their formation is also influenced by several factors, such as physical inactivity and inappropriate physical effort, such as making sudden movements, incorrectly or lifting a lot of weight. Thus, to avoid the formation of a herniated disc, it is important to:

• Practice regular physical activities; Do stretching exercises and strengthening the muscles of the abdomen; Maintain the correct posture, especially when lifting heavy objects. It is advisable to pick up heavy objects by bending the legs to distribute the weight, preventing it from being applied mostly to the spine; Pay attention to an adequate posture when sleeping, sitting or standing for a long time.

See, in the following video, these and other tips, guided by the physiotherapist: