Are you suffering from a slipped disc?

Dubai: The spine consists of multiple bones called vertebrae that are stacked on top of each other. In between each vertebra there are protective circular pads called discs that contain a softer gel-like substance. A slipped disc occurs when one of the discs is damaged and presses on the nerves.

There are a number of factors that can put increased pressure and strain on the spine such as bending awkwardly, jobs that involve heavy or awkward lifting, lots of sitting, particularly driving, being overweight or obese, weight bearing sports, such as weightlifting or traumatic injury to the back. Smoking also plays a role as it causes the discs to lose their natural flexibility. As we get older, our spinal discs start to lose their water content, making them less flexible and more likely to rupture. The damaged disc can put pressure on the whole spinal cord or on a single nerve.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are effective at diagnosing the position and size of a slipped disc. They can also pinpoint the affected nerves. A CT scan can also pinpoint a slipped disc, although it is often not as effective. X-rays are not generally used as a test to look for slipped discs as they only show the bones and do not give a view of the nerves and spinal cord.

Treatment of a slipped disc usually involves a combination of physiotherapy and medication. Corticosteroid injections can also be given to the lower spine to help reduce pain and inflammation.