Lumbar Disc Prolapse
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- Lumbar Disc Prolapse
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- +91 95538 84878
- drsrikanthneuro@gmail.com
- Neurocyte,P Janardhan Reddy Nagar, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana 500032
- Apollo hospitals, Financial District, Hyderabad, Makthakousarali, Telangana 500032
What is Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
The spine comprises several vertebrae that run from the top of the head to the bottom of the tailbone. A disc is an elastic-like structure that rests between each vertebra. The ‘annulus fibrosus’ is a stiff outer section of the disc, and the ‘nucleus pulposus’ is a gel-like interior section. The discs function to separate the vertebrae and offer shock absorption to forces acting on the spine during movement.
A lumbar disc prolapse, also known as a “herniated” or “slipped” disc, occurs when a portion of soft central disc material squeezes out through a tear in the disc capsule under pressure (annulus). The prolapsed fragment may produce neurological symptoms by compressing a nearby nerve root or numerous roots.
What Causes Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
A variety of factors can cause disc prolapse. As we age, our spine discs may lose their flexibility and elasticity. Bas the gel in the discs starts drying out. The ligaments surrounding the discs become fragile and more readily torn due to f this. Excessive tension on the disc causes disc prolapse, which can be caused by lifting heavy objects, injury, or other detrimental actions.
Herniated disks are also thought to have a genetic predisposition and so can run in families. Early disc degeneration may be caused by smoking and various occupational activities.
What are the Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
- Muscle weakness (which can include the inability to elevate your foot).
- Tingling or pins and needles down the leg
- Low backache
- Leg pain that runs down the front, side, or back
- Numbness in the lower leg
How is Lumbar Disc Prolapse Diagnosed?
A spinal MRI scan, which offers comprehensive images of the spinal components, including the nerves and discs, is the best way to see a prolapsed disc. X-rays are ineffective in diagnosing this illness and expose patients to needless radiation.
How is Lumbar Disc Prolapse Treated?
Most patients improve in four to eight weeks with conservative treatment, such as pain medication and reduced activity. Physiotherapy or acupuncture may also be beneficial. Forceful spinal manipulation should be avoided because it has the potential to exacerbate discomfort and injure nerves.
Spinal injections
X-ray-guided epidurals and nerve root injections can particularly benefit individuals suffering from leg discomfort (and occasionally altered sensation) due to a disc prolapse. At the same time, the natural healing process takes place. They can also confirm or rule out a diagnosis throughout the diagnostic procedure. Spinal injections offer the benefit of being given under local anaesthetic or sedation, and while there are risks and side effects, they are relatively uncommon.
Surgery
The following situations may necessitate surgery in the form of a lumbar discectomy:
- Prolapse of the central disc presses on the nerves that control the bladder and bowel (cauda equina syndrome)
- Leg weakness
- Persistent, severe pain that does not respond to conservative treatment
Lumbar Disc Prolapse Treatment in Hyderabad
Expert diagnosis and treatment of slipped disc and sciatica-type back and leg pain, from conservative care to advanced lumbar spine surgery, by Dr. Srikanth Reddy, Consultant Neurosurgeon, at Neurocyte, Gachibowli and Apollo Hospitals, Financial District.
- Accurate diagnosis with spinal MRI
- Non-surgical treatment first, surgery only when needed
- Safe, experienced lumbar spine surgery when required
Meet Dr. Srikanth Reddy
Dr. Srikanth Reddy is a Consultant Neurosurgeon in Hyderabad, specialising in the treatment of brain and spine conditions, including lumbar disc prolapse, spinal tumours, disc problems and minimally invasive spine surgery.
He consults at Neurocyte, Gachibowli and Apollo Hospitals, Financial District, and is known for his compassionate, patient-first approach. Every patient receives a careful evaluation, a clear explanation of the diagnosis and treatment options, and support through recovery.
- Brain and spine surgery under one roof
- Minimally invasive spine techniques
- Clear, honest guidance for patients and families
- Consultations at two convenient locations in Hyderabad
What Is Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
The spine is made up of several vertebrae that run from the top of the head to the bottom of the tailbone. A disc is an elastic, cushion-like structure that sits between each vertebra. The "annulus fibrosus" is the stiff outer section of the disc, and the "nucleus pulposus" is the gel-like interior. The discs keep the vertebrae apart and absorb shock from the forces acting on the spine during movement.
A lumbar disc prolapse, also known as a "herniated" or "slipped" disc, occurs when part of the soft central disc material squeezes out through a tear in the disc capsule (annulus) under pressure. The prolapsed fragment may cause neurological symptoms by compressing a nearby nerve root, or several roots.
Healthy Disc
A gel-like centre (nucleus pulposus) held in place by a stiff outer ring (annulus fibrosus).
Tear In The Outer Ring
Under pressure, the outer wall of the disc tears and the soft centre squeezes out.
Nerve Compression
The prolapsed fragment presses on a nearby nerve root, causing back pain, leg pain, tingling or weakness.
What Causes Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
A variety of factors can cause disc prolapse. As we age, the discs of the spine lose flexibility and elasticity, and the gel inside them starts drying out. The ligaments around the discs become fragile and are more easily torn as a result.
- Ageing and gradual drying of the discs
- Excessive strain on the disc from lifting heavy objects
- Injury or other harmful movements
- Genetic predisposition: herniated discs can run in families
- Smoking, which may cause early disc degeneration
- Certain occupational activities
What Are The Symptoms Of Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
Common signs and symptoms to watch for:
Muscle weakness, which can include the inability to lift your foot
Tingling or pins and needles down the leg
Low back pain
Leg pain that runs down the front, side or back
Numbness in the lower leg
How Is Lumbar Disc Prolapse Diagnosed?
A spinal MRI scan, which gives comprehensive images of the spinal structures including the nerves and discs, is the best way to see a prolapsed disc. X-rays are not effective in diagnosing this condition and expose patients to unnecessary radiation.
Book AppointmentSpinal MRI
Uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to show the discs, nerve roots and spinal cord clearly, so the exact level and severity of the prolapse can be identified.
How Is Lumbar Disc Prolapse Treated?
Most patients improve in four to eight weeks with conservative treatment, such as pain medication and reduced activity. Physiotherapy or acupuncture may also be beneficial.
Conservative Care
Pain medication, reduced activity, physiotherapy or acupuncture, which helps most patients within four to eight weeks.
Spinal Injections
X-ray-guided epidurals and nerve root injections can particularly benefit people with leg pain (and occasionally altered sensation) due to a disc prolapse, while natural healing takes place. They can also help confirm or rule out a diagnosis. They are given under local anaesthetic or sedation, and while there are risks and side effects, they are relatively uncommon.
Surgery
A lumbar discectomy may be needed in these situations:
• Central disc prolapse pressing on the nerves that control the bladder and bowel (cauda equina syndrome)
• Leg weakness
What Our Patients Say
Dr. Srikanth Reddy is the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad. When my grandfather got a tumor in the spinal cord, Dr. Srikanth Reddy did the surgery with lots of care. Now my grandfather is healthy, with no issues.
Aakurathi ChaturvediDr Srikanth Reddy sir is the best doctor I've ever had by a long shot. Always compassionate, empathetic and easy to talk to. I always leave feeling so much better in every way. Do yourself a favour and meet sir.
Nikitha ReddyMy grandfather was suffering from severe pain in the spinal cord. We took him to Medicover Hospitals and he went through a complex spine surgery. I would like to show my gratitude towards the hospital for taking proper care of my grandfather.
Sweta ChoudhuryFrequently Asked Questions
What is lumbar disc prolapse?
A lumbar disc prolapse, also called a herniated or slipped disc, occurs when soft central disc material squeezes out through a tear in the disc's outer wall and may compress a nearby nerve root.
What causes lumbar disc prolapse?
Age-related drying and weakening of the discs, lifting heavy objects, injury, genetic predisposition, smoking and certain occupational activities.
What are the symptoms of lumbar disc prolapse?
Low back pain, leg pain running down the front, side or back, tingling or pins and needles down the leg, numbness in the lower leg and muscle weakness.
How is lumbar disc prolapse diagnosed?
A spinal MRI scan gives detailed images of the discs and nerves and is the best way to see a prolapsed disc.
Is surgery always needed for a lumbar disc prolapse?
No. Most patients improve in four to eight weeks with conservative treatment. Surgery such as lumbar discectomy may be needed for cauda equina syndrome or leg weakness.
Who is the best doctor for lumbar disc surgery in Hyderabad?
Dr. Srikanth Reddy, Consultant Neurosurgeon, treats lumbar disc problems at Neurocyte, Gachibowli and Apollo Hospitals, Financial District, Hyderabad.
Book Your Consultation With Dr. Srikanth Reddy
Early evaluation makes a real difference in lumbar disc problems. Fill in the form or contact us directly and our team will guide you on the next steps.
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- ⌖NeurocyteNeurocyte, P Janardhan Reddy Nagar, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana 500032
- ⌖Apollo HospitalsApollo Hospitals, Financial District, Hyderabad, Makthakousarali, Telangana 500032
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This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.