Need To Find A Neurosurgeon In Houston Texas

Inside the spine are bones referred to as vertebrae which are bones stacked on top of each other and separated by discs (shock absorbers). The discs comprise soft gel-like components called the nucleus pulposus. The nucleous pulposus is encompassed by the annulus fibrosis so when there is a crack or tear in it, a few of the soft gel portion of the disc may rupture with the tear resulting in pressure being applied to the spinal-cord or nerve resulting in a herniated disc.



This condition is commonly referred to as a ruptured disc, extruded disc, bulging disc, free fragment and slipped disc. Even though this condition can be the result of trauma of the spine, it may occur when there is no cause whatsoever. There have been patients that recall experiencing a twisting motion or specific injury that could have resulted in an extruded disc, however some have stated that they just woke up and the discomfort was already there.



Where will I Experience Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?



You might experience uncomfortable symptoms for those who have a herniated disc since it will press on the nerve and may cause symptoms where that nerve is. This problem may cause a condition results referred to as radiculopathy. This happens whenever a disc pushes on the nerve that travels to the arm and causes pain that may seem to be originating from that part of the arm. When this disc affects the legs the problem is known as sciatica.



When a person has this condition they might experience weakness and numbness or sensations of tingling. Whenever a large ruptured disc is located in the neck it, it may cause spinal cord damage and compression around the spinal cord. A large slipped disc in the lumbar area can cause bladder or bowel control difficulties.



Who's vulnerable to Getting a Herniated Disc?



Individual are at increased chance of getting a herniated disc when they engage in excessive lifting, twisting, and bending that put stress on the discs found in the neck and lower back. Although the human body is made to sustain certain levels of lifting, twisting, and bending, there is however a limitation to how much it can endure.An individual also has a heightened risk of getting a ruptured disc as they age once the disc of the spine become flatter and weaken. Whenever a disc becomes too weak, there might be tearing of the outer portion. At these times, the interior area of the disc will push through this tear and press on the nerve alongside it.



How Will I understand if I have a Herniated Disc?



Obtaining a complete history on the patient begins the process of determining if an individual has a herniated disc. Next is the physical exam. If your doctor suspects that there is a ruptured disc present, they will follow the procedure for confirming it through diagnostic studies. A physician will likely order a really sensitive study called a MRI to be able to find out if a ruptured disc is present.



If the MRI doesn't show sufficient evidence then a myelogram in addition to a CT scan with the spine could provide additional information. These studies are excellent reasons for showing the spine's anatomy however; they do not show information on the nerves. An EMG/nerve conduction test may also help to determine if a ruptured disc is present.



Looking to find a neurosurgeon in houston to help with your back pain? A spine surgeon can find surgical and non-surgical answers to your problems. Visit SpineHealth.com today.