According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), the majority of herniated disc cases are resolved without surgery, and symptoms of sciatica and radiculopathy improve in days or weeks. A herniated disc is a common back injury that may heal on its own or require medical treatment and interventions if left unchecked. It happens when the nucleus found in the vertebrae is pushed out, putting pressure on the spinal nerve, and causing pain. The pain may radiate from the neck and back to the legs, hips, and buttocks.
The common causes of herniated disc injuries include the following:
- Disk degeneration – commonly known as age-related wear and tear is the primary culprit for a herniated disc. Younger people generally have a higher water content in the vertebral discs. The water content, however, lessens as we age and the discs become less flexible. The discs then shrink and the spaces between the discs narrow resulting in higher herniation risks.
- Trauma – a fall, sudden twisting, or strain from lifting heavy weights are some examples of trauma that may cause a herniated disc.