How to Know If You Have a Herniated Disc

Most people will deal with neck or back pain at some point in their lives. But when this discomfort crops up, you want to find a way back to pain-free living as quickly as possible. That usually starts with identifying the cause of your pain so it can be treated.

Since about one in 50 people will get a herniated disc each year, we want to give an overview of this common source of back pain. It happens when one of the discs that should cushion the bones of your spine leaks or tears, putting pressure on the nerves in your spinal column. 

Fortunately, here at our Crom Rehabilitation offices in Houston and Pearland, Texas, Roy Rivera, Jr., DPT, PhD, and Jordan Boyd, DPT, offer specialized care for herniated discs.

We also want to help you know when it might be time to come see us for treatment, so let’s look at some of the telltale signs of this condition.

Symptoms of a herniated disc

Herniated discs usually occur in your lower back or neck, rather than the mid-back region. Beyond those specific locations, there are a few main characteristics of a herniated disc:

Pain that worsens with activity

In most cases, a herniated disc will feel more comfortable when you’re laying down and get worse when you’re moving around. In fact, even coughing or sneezing might be enough activity to spike your pain.

Pain when you sit

When you’re in a seated position, your spine is under a lot of pressure. This can make the herniation of your disc more pronounced, heightening your discomfort. 

Radiating pain

Because the nerves in your spine connect to other parts of your body, the discomfort from a herniated disc can spread. You might feel pain down your leg or through your glutes. 

In fact, a herniated disc can also contribute to sciatica, which causes pain to radiate from your low back down one of your legs. 

Tingling, numbness, or weakness

The herniated disc might cause pain that burns or tingles. It can also cause muscle weakness in the area. 

Treating herniated discs

Here at Crom Rehabilitation, our team can tailor a treatment plan to help you find relief from your discomfort. With physical therapy, medication, and other treatments like an at-home care plan, we work with you to minimize the discomfort you feel as your herniation heals. 

If you think you might have a herniated disc, don’t hesitate to call the Crom Rehabilitation office nearest you or schedule your appointment online today.