Lumbar Disc Prolapse

Lumbar disc prolapse is a condition where the inner gelatinous substance (nucleous pulposis) of the disc escapes through a tear in the outer fibrous ring which can cause compression of the spinal cord or the nerve.

Causes

• Normal aging process
• Exaggerated wear and tear of the disc due to strenuous work
• Injury to the lumbar spine

Symptoms

• Pain in glutes, back of thigh, legs and foot
• Numbness, tingling and weakness along the lower limb
• Rarely gait disturbance, numbness around the anal region and bladder and bowel problems

Diagnosis
X ray and MRI scan will be ordered to identify a herniated disc

Treatment

• Conservative treatment – Pain medications, muscle relaxants, physical therapy
• Spinal injections – Epidural or transforaminal steroids
• Surgery – If symptoms are not relieved, then, Surgery. Micro lumbar discectomy is performed through the lower back to remove a herniated disc from the lumbar spine region. Surgery can be endoscopic, microscopic or minimally invasive surgery.

Your surgeon will discuss surgical options and suggests you the appropriate treatment plan.