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Ask a doctor on the topic of Neurology

What can be the causes of a herniated disc?

Dear Doctor,

I am reaching out to you as I have been suffering from severe back pain for some time now, and my primary care physician has recommended that I see a neurologist. My name is Chloé Busch and I am 35 years old.

The pain in my lower back started about two months ago and has been getting progressively worse. It radiates down to my leg, making it difficult for me to move and carry out my daily activities. My primary care physician suspects that I may have a herniated disc, as the pain is a typical symptom.

I am very concerned as I am not sure what could be the cause of my herniated disc. I have been working a lot lately and have also lifted some heavy objects, which may have contributed to my back issues. However, I also wonder if there could be other reasons for a herniated disc that I am not aware of.

So my question to you is: What are the possible causes of a herniated disc? Are there specific risk factors that could lead to a herniated disc? And what treatment options are available to alleviate my pain and improve my back condition?

Thank you in advance for your help and expertise.

Kind regards,
Chloé Busch

Louis Ackermann

Dear Mrs. Busch,

Thank you for your trust and your question regarding your back pain and the possible cause of a herniated disc. It is understandable that you are worried and would like to learn more about your symptoms. I will be happy to address your questions in detail.

A herniated disc usually occurs when the soft, gel-like core of a disc protrudes through a tear or injury in the outer shell and presses on the surrounding nerves or spinal cord. The causes of a herniated disc can be diverse. Common causes include poor posture, lack of movement, obesity, heavy physical work, as well as injuries from accidents or sports injuries. Genetic predispositions can also play a role and increase the risk of a herniated disc.

There are certain risk factors that can increase the risk of a herniated disc. In addition to the mentioned causes, these also include smoking, unhealthy diet, lack of movement, and weak back muscles. Women are also more commonly affected by herniated discs than men.

Regarding treatment options, there are various approaches to relieve pain and improve back problems. In most cases, conservative treatment is initially used, meaning pain medication, physiotherapy, physical therapy, and targeted exercises to strengthen the back muscles. Ergonomic workplace design and avoiding heavy physical exertion can also help alleviate symptoms.

In more severe cases where conservative measures are not sufficient, surgical treatment may be considered. This involves removing the protruded herniated disc and reducing pressure on the nerve structures. In some cases, injection therapy with cortisone or local anesthetics may also be used for pain relief.

It is important that you consult a neurologist or orthopedist to determine the exact cause of your back pain and receive appropriate therapy. I recommend that you continue to pay attention to your posture, engage in regular exercise, and perform exercises to strengthen your back muscles to reduce the risk of further herniated discs.

I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or require guidance, I am at your disposal.

Sincerely,

Louis Ackermann, Specialist in Neurology / Nervous System Disorders

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Louis Ackermann