Verified on 04/14/2024 by Alexane Flament, Editor

A herniated disc causes more or less severe pain. These can impact quality of life. Fortunately, there are solutions to get relief quickly.

A herniated disc is a “ball” that forms inside the spine. It is the result of a rupture of the membrane which surrounds the nucleus of the disc. The latter is composed of a liquid, surrounded by a fibrous structure.

When it splits, fluid from the disc leaks out and causes a herniated disc. This can take place at the neck (cervical) or in the lower back (lumbar).

The protrusion can be of different sizes, depending on the severity of the break. Symptoms also vary, depending on the size of the hernia and its location.

Small hernias can be symptomless or very painful depending on their location. The pressure exerted by the growth can cause pain in the lower extremities.

The most common symptoms are pain in the buttock, thigh, calf or foot, sometimes accompanied by back stiffness. The pain feels like electric shocks or tingling. They can be very intense and difficult to relieve. Sometimes a herniated disc is asymptomatic.

Rest and anti-inflammatory: quickly relieve a herniated disc

Pain from a herniated disc can be very debilitating. Fortunately, there are easy solutions you can apply at home to relieve symptoms.

Therefore, it is recommended to:

  • Pgive rest. This helps relieve pain by avoiding false movement. Rest must cover the time of the acute phase, i.e. one or two days;
  • It is then necessary pay attention to risky movements and behaviors that are dangerous for the back;
  • Do not hesitate to take medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation;
  • Apply heat. In some cases, heat can help relax the muscles surrounding the affected disc. This helps reduce pressure on the injured nerve. Cold can help reduce swelling and reduce pain caused by inflammation.

If the pain does not subside, do not hesitate to consult a health professional who will be able to direct you towards appropriate treatment.

Florine Cauchie

Health journalist

April 14, 2024, at 12:10 p.m.

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