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Herniated Disc in Singapore
Overview
A herniated disc (also called a slipped or ruptured disc) occurs when the soft centre of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
Herniated discs most commonly affect the lower back (lumbar spine) but can also occur in the neck (cervical spine). Many cases improve with conservative treatment, but some require specialist intervention.
Symptoms
- Sharp or burning pain in the back, leg, or arm (depending on location)
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area
- Muscle weakness that may cause stumbling or difficulty lifting
- Pain that worsens with certain movements, coughing, or sneezing
- Sciatica — radiating pain from the lower back down one leg
Treatment Options
- Physical therapy — Exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility.
- Medication — Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medication.
- Epidural steroid injections — To reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.
- Microdiscectomy — Minimally invasive surgery to remove the herniated portion of the disc.
- Disc replacement — Artificial disc surgery for selected cases, preserving spinal mobility.
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