What Is a Lumbar Disc Herniation?
Dr. Babu: It is a common presenting condition that is the result of multiple factors. Usually, an already predisposed disc is stressed by physical activity. This frequently consists of lifting events with compromised mechanics. It’s usually a combination of two motions that lead to a herniation: flexion or bending at your hip and a twisting motion at the same time. It can be oftentimes confused with a muscular strain in the back, which can also have a similar offending mechanism.
What Are the Symptoms of Lumbar Herniation?
Dr. Babu: Patients can have the very nonspecific symptom of low back pain as their presenting complaint. Sometimes, if the disc herniation is large enough that there is compression of a nerve root, this can produce symptoms such as radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness.
Source: Illinois Bone & Joint Institute
