Treatment Choices for Slip Disc at Gokuldas Hospital

Our spinal cord has various small discs stacked one on top of another. It gives shape to our backs and creates a support system for the body to stand on.

Each disc comprises a strong outer ring and a softer, gel-like inner core. When the inner part comes out through the outer ring due to injury or weakness, it results in what’s commonly referred to as a slipped, herniated, or prolapsed disc. This condition often triggers discomfort and pain.

Should the slipped disc exert pressure on a spinal nerve, you might additionally encounter numbness and pain along the nerve’s pathway. In more serious cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to either repair or remove the slipped disc. While playing or carrying out some extraneous activities, the chances of slipping one of the discs increase.

What is a slip disc?

A slipped disc, or herniated disc, occurs when the soft tissue between spinal bones ruptures, leading to the inner gel pressing on nerves. This results in pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Treatment involves rest, therapy, or in severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on nerves.

What are the symptoms of a slip disc?

Since our spinal cord extends from the neck to the lower back, there are numerous capillaries and blood vessels that rupture due to slipped discs.

Some prominent symptoms of slip disc:

1. Pain: Often felt on one side of the body, in the lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet. The pain can be sharp or dull and may worsen with certain movements like bending, lifting, or twisting.
2. Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of pins and needles, numbness, or tingling in the affected area, commonly extending down the leg.
3. Muscle Weakness: Weakness in certain muscles, particularly in the legs or feet, making it difficult to lift or move them.
4. Changes in Reflexes: A slipped disc might affect reflexes, leading to diminished reflex responses, particularly in the knees or ankles.
5. Difficulty Walking or Standing: Pain and discomfort might make it hard to walk, stand, or sit for extended periods.
6. Radiating Pain: Pain might radiate along the nerve path, causing discomfort in various areas of the body.
7. Pain Aggravation: Coughing, sneezing, or even sitting for a prolonged period may exacerbate the pain due to increased pressure on the affected area.

The pain that follows a slipped disc is an excruciating one. Hence, doctors at Gokuldas recommend prompt treatment of the same within the time limit to live an easy life ahead.

Treatment Options Available for Slip Disc

When the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through a weakened area in the disc’s outer layer, often pressing on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Fortunately, several treatment options are available, including both non-invasive and surgical approaches, often supported by radiological imaging for accurate diagnosis and monitoring by Gokuldas. Let’s delve into these treatment avenues:

Non-Invasive Treatment Options:

Medication and Rest:

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs can help manage mild to moderate pain caused by a slipped disc. They work by reducing inflammation around the affected area, providing relief.
• Muscle Relaxants: Prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms that often accompany disc herniation, reducing discomfort and allowing for better mobility.

Physical Therapy:

• Exercise Programs: Physical therapy involves a tailored exercise regimen focusing on strengthening core muscles and improving flexibility. Core stability exercises, stretches, and aerobic conditioning can significantly reduce pressure on the affected disc and alleviate symptoms over time.
• Manual Therapy: Chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, or spinal manipulation performed by qualified professionals can help relieve pain and improve spinal alignment.

Steroid Injections:

• Epidural Injections: Administered directly into the affected area of the spine, these injections contain corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They are often used when oral medications or physical therapy fail to provide sufficient relief.

Surgical Treatment Options:

Micro discectomy:

• A minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small portion of the herniated disc material pressing on the nerve root is removed. This surgery aims to relieve pressure on the nerve and reduce associated symptoms like pain and numbness.

Laminectomy:

• Involves the removal of a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create more space for the nerves in the spinal canal. This decompression surgery is often recommended for severe cases of nerve compression due to a slipped disc.

Artificial Disc Replacement:

• This surgical option involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one, preserving spinal motion while alleviating nerve compression. It’s an alternative to traditional spinal fusion surgery.

Role of Radiology Services by Gokuldas in Diagnosing and Treating Slipped Discs:

Digital X-rays: Instead of relying on traditional photographic film, Gokuldas uses digital X-ray sensors, offering several advantages. These include the capacity to digitally transfer and enhance images, as well as time efficiency by eliminating the need for chemical processing.

Radiography via X-rays stands as the primary approach for diagnosing various medical conditions, such as pneumonia. Operating within the realm of digital radiography, this technique swiftly generates images, is entirely non-invasive, and, when used appropriately, is a safe diagnostic tool. Its precision aids in accurate problem identification.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This cutting-edge facility of Gokuldas enables us to capture intricate images of virtually every structure and organ within the body. Offering a closer examination of organs, muscles, blood vessels, and bones, significantly aids in the timely diagnosis of various life-threatening health conditions. Additionally, it is completely free of radiation and pain, ensuring a comfortable experience for patients.

CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: CT scans offer detailed cross-sectional images of the spine, aiding in assessing both bone and soft tissue structures. They are particularly useful in surgical planning, providing detailed 3D images for surgeons to precisely visualize the affected area.

The Bottom Line

With a focus on accurate diagnosis supported by advanced radiological imaging techniques like digital X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, Gokuldas Hospital offers a comprehensive array of treatment options for slipped discs.

With a commitment to timely and tailored interventions, Gokuldas Hospitals not only addresses the immediate challenges posed by slip disc conditions but also focuses on long-term well-being. Trust in Gokuldas for a holistic approach to slip disc care, combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate and expert medical attention.

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