When you go from working a job where you are on your feet all day to suddenly sitting behind a computer in a cubicle all day long, you would probably be surprised with how much of an impact it has on your health. Not only is it difficult to get used to the day by day drudgery of a desk job, you probably get pretty sore by the time you finish out your first week.
More than likely, you start out feeling fantastic. You think it’s going to be the best thing in the world to sit all day but when you start feeling the aches and pains coming on, your mind will quickly change. You probably suffered from lower back pain from sitting on your backside all day and neck pain from having it cranked over looking at a computer. Your hips were probably sore because of being locked into one position and it just feels miserable.
After doing some research, you will discover that there are symptoms associated with slipped discs that you may never have heard of before. Although it is unlikely for you to have a slipped disc by sitting for only a one-week, it is important to recognize the symptoms and act on them right away. These 7 symptoms could be a sign of a herniated disc. Don’t ignore them.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
In the medical world, a herniated disc takes place when the intervertebral disc between the vertebrae ruptures and the inside oozes out. If it comes to rest on a nearby nerve root, it can cause significant pain.
A herniated disc may happen in any area of the spine but it is more common in the lumbar region or in the cervical region.
Know the Symptoms
1. Pain in the extremities
You may have a problem with shooting pain in your lower or upper extremities. It can move down your arm and that is an indication that you have a slipped disc in your neck. Streaks of pain down the legs may be a condition known as sciatica, which means you might have a slipped disc in the lumbar spine.
This type of pain may get worse when you sneeze, cough or twist your torso abruptly.
2. Numbness
If you have a herniated disc in the lumbar spine you might have nerve symptoms that affect the lower part of the body. One of the symptoms that are common is numbness in the legs and feet. The slipped disc interrupts the signals traveling down the nerve to the lower regions, causing that problem.
3. Tingling
Many people who suffer from a herniated disc have a pins and needles sensation in the extremities. It can be uncomfortable and is similar to the feeling you get when your arm or leg falls asleep.
A slipped disc may cause pain without the pins and needles sensation but it will likely get worse as you stand for a long time.
4. Weakness
If you have a slipped disc in the cervical spine it can cause weakness in the arms. You may find it hard to grasp objects or to use your fine motor skills.
5. Neck pain
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that neck pain is a symptom of a cervical slipped disc. The spine is compressed and the nerves are under pressure, leading to soreness in the area.
The common muscle pain or tightness that is associated with a sore neck does not always mean that you have a herniated disc. If you have acute pain, however, see your doctor.
6. Back pain
A slipped disc in the lumbar spine can lead to lower back pain. This can be a very difficult situation and it can certainly affect your quality of life. You may get some relief with rest and medication but it may require that you see a doctor for permanent relief.
Some people may have more pain in the leg than in the lower back when they have a herniated lumbar disc.
7. Saddle symptoms
If you have saddle symptoms, you might have a slipped disc. This could include weakness and pain in the part of the legs and buttocks that might touch a saddle. It can also be a sign of a rare disease. It is best to talk to your doctor if you have the symptoms.
What Can You Do?
There are different treatments for a slipped disc, depending upon your condition. It could be treated with a lifestyle modification or surgery may be necessary.
There may be times when a slipped disc will go away on its own but sometimes, more serious actions may be necessary.
It is always best to talk to a doctor if you think that a herniated disc might be a problem for you. It is an issue that could get worse if it is not treated.