Hi,
I have an herniated disc. Also known as a bulging disc.
I found this diagram of a herniated disc that from every explanation I've got seems to demonstrate exactly what it is.
Basically the inner part of the disc herniates (ruptures) beyond the outside of the disc (known as the annulus).
From my research it seems to occur more frequently in people aged 30 - 45. This is the age bracket where the outside of the disc begins to harden (and sometimes crack) but the inside is still soft.. and it can more easily squeeze out.
Also, during my research, I haven't been able to find many blogs of people who are suffering from a herniated disc. One blog that I did find which I thought was really awesome can be found here: the herniated disc blog. I got the most information on what worked and what didn't from this herniated disc summary post on the same blog.
Hopefully I can keep motivated and keep posting.
I was diagnosed with a herniated disc after a CT scan, however more information on how severe the disc herniation was came after the MRI. My disc herniation has occurred at the L4-5 position.
I have severe right leg pain (sciatica) that impairs my ability to sit for long periods, and walk any kind of distance.
Anyhow, if anyone else is suffering from a disc herniation please post a comment, and if you don't have a blog on your herniated disc please start one today and talk about your experiences.... it helps everyone else out who's got this terrible affliction.
Currently I'm seeing a physiotherapist, and I'm thinking of having the surgery on the hernation.. I've put up with this for about 3 months now, and enough is enough. The minimally invasive micro discectomy surgery video on the bad back blog looks very inspiring as well... that's what I'm going to have!
I suffered my injury from slipping on a wet surface... and I can tell you that the pain was immediate and severe... for anyone that's been suffering with a herniated disc for a long time, I can really sympathize.
Also, I was wondering if anyone had advice on the actual back surgery itself... should you see a neurosurgeon, or an orthopedic surgeon? Is there any other type of surgeon?
Has anyone had any success with alternate treatments for their herniated disc? Any recommended exercises?
Cheers,
A Herniated Disc Suffer, Jon.
