Back pain affects millions of people around the world, with approximately 80 percent of adults experiencing it at some point in their lives. Among the various causes of back pain, herniated discs and muscle spasms are two common culprits that often coexist, leading many patients and healthcare providers to question their relationship. In this article, you will learn about the connection between herniated discs and back muscle spasms, how one condition can trigger or exacerbate the other, and what treatment options are available for those suffering from both conditions.
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner material of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior casing. Intervertebral discs are the cushion-like structures that sit between the vertebrae of the spine, acting as shock absorbers and allowing for flexibility and movement.
The human spine contains 23 discs, and any of them can become herniated, though herniation most commonly occurs in the lumbar (lower back) region due to the significant pressure this area endures. When a disc herniates, the protruding material can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area and potentially along the path of the affected nerve.
Approximately 2 percent of the adult population experiences symptomatic disc herniation, with men being affected slightly more often than women.
Muscle spasms are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles. In the back, these spasms can range from mildly uncomfortable to severely painful and debilitating. Back muscle spasms often occur as a protective mechanism—the body’s attempt to prevent movement that might cause further damage to an injured area.
Several factors can trigger back muscle spasms, including:
When a muscle spasm occurs, the affected muscle becomes tight and hard to the touch, and the area may twitch visibly. Pain can be severe and may make it difficult to move normally until the spasm subsides.
There is indeed a strong connection between herniated discs and back muscle spasms, with the relationship working in both directions. A herniated disc can trigger muscle spasms, and chronic muscle spasms can potentially contribute to disc herniation over time.
When a disc herniates, several mechanisms can lead to muscle spasms:
A study published in Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery found that up to 75 percent of patients with lumbar disc herniation experienced muscle spasms as a symptom. The study noted these spasms were often more intense during activities that increased pressure on the disc, such as bending or lifting.
Once established, the relationship between disc herniation and muscle spasms can become cyclical:
Breaking this cycle is often a key focus of treatment strategies for patients experiencing both conditions.
When a herniated disc is causing or coexisting with muscle spasms, patients may experience:
Diagnosing the connection between herniated discs and muscle spasms typically involves:
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, as patients with both disc herniation and muscle spasms may have poorer outcomes when treatment is delayed.
The treatment of herniated discs with associated muscle spasms typically involves a multifaceted approach aimed at relieving pain, reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and promoting healing.
For most patients, conservative treatments are the first line of defense:
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that conservative treatment approaches were effective for approximately 90 percent of patients with herniated discs and associated symptoms, including muscle spasms.
For patients who do not respond adequately to conservative measures, more advanced treatments may be considered:
Patients with both herniated discs and persistent muscle spasms often require a combination of treatments targeting both issues for optimal results.
Preventing recurrence of herniated discs and associated muscle spasms involves:
A longitudinal study found that patients who maintained regular core-strengthening exercise programs had significantly lower rates of recurrent disc herniation and muscle spasms compared to those who discontinued exercise after initial recovery.
While many cases of herniated discs with muscle spasms improve with time and conservative treatment, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:
The connection between herniated discs and back muscle spasms is well-established, with each condition potentially causing or exacerbating the other. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective treatment and long-term management. For most patients, a comprehensive approach that addresses both the structural issue (the herniated disc) and the muscular component (spasms) offers the best chance for relief and recovery.
If you are experiencing symptoms that suggest a herniated disc with muscle spasms, consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in spine health. With proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, most people can find significant relief and return to their normal activities.
If you have a herniated disc that is not responding to conservative treatment, a discectomy or less invasive microdiscectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Although this is generally a very successful procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is performed immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.