A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured or slipped disc, occurs when the soft inner core of an intervertebral disc pushes through the tougher outer layer. This can happen anywhere along the spine, but it is most common in the lower back and neck. Herniated discs can significantly impact your daily life, causing pain, discomfort, and mobility issues. When left untreated, a herniated disc can lead to severe complications. In this article, you will learn about the long-term effects of a herniated disc, the risks of delaying treatment, and the available medical interventions.
When a disc herniates, it can press on the surrounding nerves, causing intense pain and discomfort. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the herniation.
The most immediate effect of a herniated disc is often pain. This can range from mild discomfort to severe debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities. The pain may be localized to the affected area or radiate to other parts of the body, depending on which nerves are affected.
Pressure on nerve roots can cause numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the affected area. This is often experienced in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniated disc.
As the herniated disc compresses nearby nerves, it can lead to muscle weakness in the affected limbs. This may result in difficulty lifting objects, maintaining balance, or performing routine tasks.
Delaying treatment for a herniated disc can lead to the worsening of symptoms and an increased risk of complications. Early intervention can help you manage pain, prevent further damage, and increase your chances of a full recovery. Risks of delaying treatment include the following.
One of the most common long-term effects of an untreated herniated disc is chronic pain. This pain can persist for months or even years, significantly impacting your quality of life. Chronic pain often leads to a decrease in physical activity, which can contribute to muscle weakness and further exacerbate the condition.
If a herniated disc continues to press on spinal nerves, it can cause permanent nerve damage. This damage may result in persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas. Severe nerve damage can lead to a loss of motor function, affecting your ability to perform everyday tasks.
In rare cases, a herniated disc in the lower back can lead to cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Cauda equina syndrome occurs when the herniated disc compresses the bundle of nerves at the base of the spinal cord. Symptoms include:
Without prompt treatment, cauda equina syndrome can lead to permanent paralysis or other serious complications.
Over time, an untreated herniated disc can contribute to degenerative disc disease. This condition involves the gradual breakdown of spinal discs, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Degenerative disc disease can also increase the risk of developing other spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis or osteoarthritis.
Living with the long-term effects of a herniated disc can significantly reduce your quality of life. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and ongoing discomfort can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The inability to engage in physical activities or perform daily tasks can also impact your overall wellbeing and independence.
As pain and other symptoms persist, individuals with untreated herniated discs may find their mobility increasingly limited. This can affect their ability to perform routine tasks, exercise, or engage in recreational activities.
Chronic pain and physical limitations can significantly impact work performance. Some individuals may need to take extended time off or even change careers due to the ongoing effects of their untreated herniated discs.
Living with chronic pain and physical limitations can take a toll on mental health. Depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders are common among those dealing with long-term herniated disc issues.
Many cases of herniated discs can be managed with conservative treatments, including:
If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Common surgical procedures for herniated discs include:
Some patients may find relief through alternative therapies, such as:
Preventing herniated discs and managing existing conditions involve adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as:
Living with a herniated disc for an extended period can lead to severe complications, including chronic pain, nerve damage, and decreased quality of life. Early intervention and appropriate treatment are crucial to managing symptoms and preventing long-term effects. If you suspect you have a herniated disc, seek medical advice promptly to explore the best treatment options for your condition.
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 form of back surgery, 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 done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.