Disc Herniated Back Symptoms

Disc herniated back symptoms can be quite severe.  When the herniated disc ruptures it pushed out.  The nerves in the spinal cord become compressed and this causes pain.   A herniated disc may happen suddenly in the event of a fall or severe accident. 

However, most disc herniated back symptoms occur gradually over time with repetitive straining of the lumbar or lower spine. 

Most people who suffer from herniated disc already have lower back stenosis.  This problem causes bone spurs and also causes the surrounding tissue to become inflamed.  It is this inflammation which presses on the nerves in the spinal cord.  Common disc herniated back symptoms include:

Leg Pain – This pain is most commonly found on the outside of the right and lower leg as well as the foot.  The pain is described as shooting.  It travels from the top of thigh all the way down the leg to the foot.  Sufferers describe the pain as an electric shock.  This is one of the many disc herniated back symptoms.

Parasthesia – Another  problem found in the group of disc herniated back symptoms is parasthesia.  This is a medical term for strange sensations within the body.  These sensations include tingling, numbness, or “pins and needles”.  These symptoms usually occur in the same region as the pain does.

Muscle Weakness – Muscle weakness is caused by nerve irritation.  Signals from the brain are being interrupted which make the muscles in the legs extremely weak especially in the ankle region.  Nerve irritation can usually be tested by looking at the reflexes at the knee and ankle.  Muscle weakness can get worse over time and even with exercise may not improve.

If you are experiencing any one of the disc herniated back symptoms you should see a doctor immediately.  When herniated discs are caught early they can usually be treated through physical therapy and pain medication without surgery.