Slipped Disc and Sciatic Pain

Between each of our vertebrae (bones which form the spine) is a cartilaginous disc which acts as a shock absorber between the two bones. The spinal cord, which is responsible for sending all information between our brains and the rest of our bodies, passes through the column formed by our vertebrae.

This means the discs are in close proximity to the spinal cord.

A large number of cases of lower back pain are caused by a herniation or protrusion of one of these discs. This often causes compression to the spinal cord. This is what causes the pain associated with a 'slipped disc'.

Inbetween the vertebrae, the spinal column sends out nerve roots which feed the rest of your bodies muscles and organs. Nerves which exit the spine at a certain level, feed the muscles and organs at that level. For example, the abdominal muscles are innervated by nerves which exit the spine at lower thoracic level (mid back/stomach level). Slipped discs occur most commonly in the lumbar spine (lower back). This causes pain to radiate through the lower back, buttocks and back of the leg. This is because the Lumbar section of the spinal cord, sends nerves out down the legs. The largest nerve emerging from this area is the sciatic nerve, which gives its name to the condition sciatica. This term is used to describe pain which radiates along the course of the sciatic nerve (from the lower back, into the buttocks and down the back of the legs).

Symptoms

Lower back pain may or may not occur.
Pain which may extend through the buttock and leg.
Sitting may aggravate the pain.
Usually feels better in the mornings after a nights rest as the discs are then less compressed.
The muscles of the lower back, buttocks and hamstrings may be in spasm.
Palpation of the lower back may be tender.
Pain on the straight leg raise test (video).

Treatment

Rest from activities or positions which aggravate it.
A doctor may recommend anti-inflammatories like Ibuprofen.
Using a hot pack or having a hot bath may ease muscle tension.
See a sports injury specialist or doctor

A Specialist will:

Find out what has caused the pain - this may involve getting an MRI scan.
Sports massage may help to ease tight muscles.
Use mobilisation treatments and traction to reduce pressure on the spinal cord.
Use a TENS machine to ease muscle spasm.
If symptoms do not improve through conservative treatment, surgery may be offered.

Once the acutely painful phase has passed a rehabilitation program should begin to improve the strength of the back and core muscles and restore flexibility. Posture should also be assessed.

Further Information

Slipped Disc - for further information on treatment including rehabilitation, taping, sports massage, stretching and more visit sportsinjuryclinic.net

Lumbar vertebrae and intevertabral disc