![]() But all too often, you might not realize there’s a problem until your dog has trouble using one or more legs. Then you might be able to spot a spinal issue earlier. The initial treatment for a herniated disc is usually conservative and nonsurgical in the form of rest, medications, physical therapy, bracing, and injective therapy.If only dogs could rub their lower backs with their paws and groan. This will indicate whether there is ongoing nerve damage, if the nerves are in a state of healing from a past injury or whether there is another site of nerve compression. Myelogram: An X-ray of the spinal canal following injection of a contrast material into the surrounding cerebrospinal fluid spaces can show pressure on the spinal cord or nerves due to herniated discs, bone spurs or tumors.Įlectromyogram and Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS): These tests measure the electrical impulse along nerve roots, peripheral nerves and muscle tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A diagnostic test that produces 3D images of body structures using powerful magnets and computer technology can show the spinal cord, nerve roots and surrounding areas as well as enlargement, degeneration and tumors. tumors, infections, fractures, etc.Ĭomputed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan): A diagnostic image created after a computer reads X-rays can show the shape and size of the spinal canal, its contents and the structures around it. X-rays of the spine are obtained to search for other potential causes of pain, i.e. X-ray: Application of radiation to produce a film or picture of a part of the body can show the structure of the vertebrae and the outline of the joints. CT scan and myelogram were more commonly used before MRI, but now are infrequently ordered as the initial diagnostic imaging, unless special circumstances exist that warrant their use. Please note, however, that a disc herniation cannot be seen on plain x-rays. X-rays of the affected region are often added to complete the evaluation of the vertebra. ![]() The most common imaging for this condition is MRI. Typically, a herniated disc is preceded by an episode of low back pain or a long history of intermittent episodes of low back pain. If it is pressing on a nerve, there may be pain, numbness or weakness in the area of the body to which the nerve travels. ![]() If the herniated disc is not pressing on a nerve, the patient may experience a low backache or no pain at all. Symptoms vary greatly, depending on the position of the herniated disc and the size of the herniation. Research has shown that a predisposition for herniated discs may exist in families with several members affected. As this degeneration progresses, a relatively minor strain or twisting movement can cause a disc to rupture or herniate.Ĭertain individuals may be more vulnerable to disc problems and, as a result, may suffer herniated discs in several places along the spine. Disc material also degenerates naturally as one ages, and the ligaments that hold it in place begin to weaken. We treat spine injuries and conditions in our Spine, Pain Management, General Medicine, Orthopedics, and Physical Therapy departments.Ī single excessive strain, trauma, or acute injury can cause a herniated disc. The area in which pain is experienced, and extremity affected by radicular symptoms, depends on what part of the spine is affected.Īt Aptiva Health, we offer same-day and walk-in appointments for spine injuries and conditions to evaluate, diagnose, and make the appropriate referral for additional treatment based upon your specific spine injury or condition. Herniated discs are more common in the lower back (lumbar spine), but also occur in the neck (cervical spine). Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine. Due to this displacement, the disc presses on spinal nerves, often producing pain, which may be severe and typically radiates down the extremity associated with the compressed nerve. The spinal canal has limited space, which is inadequate for the spinal nerve and the displaced herniated disc fragment. Discs that become herniated usually are in an early stage of degeneration. Located between each of the vertebra in the spinal column, discs act as shock absorbers for the spinal bones.Ī herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped or ruptured dependent upon the level of herniation) is a fragment of the disc nucleus that is pushed out of the annulus, into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture in the annulus. These discs are round, like gel pillows, with a tough, outer layer (annulus) that surrounds the nucleus. ![]() The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine in the back are cushioned by discs. ![]()
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