A herniated disc is a condition where the soft inner part of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the outer layer. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back or legs, depending on which nerve is affected. A herniated disc can be treated with conservative methods, such as medication, physical therapy, or injections, or with surgery, such as a discectomy.
A discectomy can be effective at reducing symptoms and improving function, but it also carries some risks and complications. One of these complications is the recurrence of herniation, which means the same disc or an adjacent disc herniates again after surgery. This article explores the factors that influence disc reherniation and what you can do to minimize the risk.
The Mechanics of Disc Reherniation
A discectomy or less invasive microdiscectomy involves removing a portion of the damaged intervertebral disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve, causing pain and other symptoms. This procedure typically offers substantial relief by reducing pressure on the affected nerve. However, the vulnerability to reherniation depends on various factors:
- Disc integrity – After a discectomy, the remaining portion of the intervertebral disc may still be weakened and prone to further degeneration. This diminished structural integrity can increase the risk of reherniation.
- Lifestyle and activity – Your lifestyle and activity level play pivotal roles. Engaging in high-impact activities, heavy lifting, or poor posture can strain your spine and increase the chances of reherniation. Conversely, a well-balanced low-impact exercise regimen can promote spinal health.
- Smoking and nutrition – Smoking and poor nutrition can hinder the healing process. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the surgical site. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, on the other hand, can support tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
- Post-operative care – A critical factor is post-operative care. Following your surgeon’s instructions regarding physical activity, lifting restrictions, and medication is essential. Neglecting these guidelines can jeopardize your recovery and increase the risk of reherniation.
Risk Factors for Disc Reherniation
There are several risk factors that can contribute to disc reherniation, such as:
- Age – With age, discs naturally degenerate, becoming less resilient. Older individuals may be at higher risk for reherniation compared to younger patients.
- Weight – Excess body weight can exert increased pressure on the spine. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce this pressure and lower the risk of reherniation.
- Genetics – Genetics can also play a role. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to disc problems, making them more susceptible to reherniation.
- Occupation – Certain occupations that involve repetitive lifting, bending, or prolonged sitting may increase the risk of disc reherniation. Occupational factors should be considered when evaluating the risk.
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Preventing Disc Reherniation
While it is not always possible to completely eliminate the risk of disc reherniation, there are steps you can take to minimize it:
- Follow medical advice – Adherence to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is paramount. These guidelines are tailored to your specific case and are designed to support your recovery.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Engage in regular low-impact exercise to keep your spine strong and flexible. Quit smoking if you smoke, and focus on a balanced diet to support tissue healing.
- Avoid high-risk activities – Steer clear of activities that place excessive strain on your back, especially in the initial recovery period. Heavy lifting and high-impact sports should be avoided until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider.
- Ergonomics – Ensure your workspace and home environment are ergonomically sound. Proper chair support, computer screen height, and good posture can reduce the risk of reherniation.
- Consider physical therapy – Physical therapy can be beneficial in strengthening the muscles that support your spine. A trained therapist can create a personalized program to reduce your risk of reherniation.
In the quest to understand disc reherniation after a discectomy, it is clear that multiple factors influence the risk. While it is not entirely easy to predict or prevent, you can significantly lower your chances of reherniation by taking appropriate precautions. These precautions include following medical advice, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being mindful of activities that strain your back.
Every individual’s case is unique. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on minimizing the risk of disc reherniation after a discectomy. By making informed choices and prioritizing your spinal health, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and pain-free recovery.
Even though discectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, a hole is frequently left in the outer wall of the disc. In fact, patients with these large holes in their discs are more than twice as likely to reherniate. Reherniations often require additional surgery, which may include spinal fusion surgery. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, 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 or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-705-1081.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.