WHAT IS A DISK EXTRUSION?
WHAT IS A DISK EXTRUSION?
What is a Disk Extrusion?
There are several terms to describe the various degrees of disc herniation:
Bulging Disc: This is when the disc's outer layer extends beyond its usual boundary but doesn't rupture.
Disc Protrusion: This is a more significant bulge, with some inner disc material pushing out.
Disc Extrusion: This is a more severe form of disc herniation. In a disc extrusion, the inner material (nucleus pulposus) breaks through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) but remains attached to the disc.
Sequestered Disc: In some cases, the inner disc material can completely detach from the disc and float away into the spinal canal. This is referred to as a sequestered disc.
In medical terminology, a disc extrusion is a type of spinal disc herniation or disc protrusion. The spinal discs are soft, cushion-like structures between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) that act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. When the inner gel-like material of a disc pushes out through the outer layer, it can cause various degrees of spinal compression and nerve irritation.
Disc extrusions and other forms of disc herniation can cause pressure on nearby nerves, leading to various symptoms, including back pain, sciatica (pain radiating down the leg), numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Treatment options may range from conservative approaches like physical therapy and pain management to surgical intervention in more severe cases. Treatment choice depends on the individual's specific condition and the severity of their symptoms.
Causes of Disc Extrusion
Disc extrusions are associated with numerous factors. Repetitive strain and poor posture, especially in physically demanding occupations, can contribute to this type of injury. Similarly, genetics, obesity, and smoking may further amplify an individual's vulnerability to disc extrusions.
However, more often than not, based on the severity of a disk extrusion, they are typically caused by traumatic events. Our spinal discs are designed to protect our spine’s vertebrae. So, it usually takes trauma or excessive strain to cause a tear in the outer wall.
Possible causes of disc extrusion:
Slip & Falls - When a person slips and falls, especially on a hard surface, there can be a sudden impact on the spine. The compression force on the spine, coupled with twisting or bending of the back during the fall, can lead to excessive stress on the intervertebral discs. This stress can result in the outer layer of the disc tearing, allowing the inner disc material to protrude or extrude.
Car Accidents - In rear-end or head-on collisions, whiplash is a common injury. The rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and neck can lead to excessive stress on the cervical (neck) discs. This stress can cause the disc's outer layer to tear, allowing the inner material to extrude or herniate.
Construction Accidents - Construction sites pose a higher risk of falls and accidents due to uneven terrain, elevated work areas, and the operation of heavy machinery. Falls or accidents can result in traumatic injury to the spine, which may lead to disc extrusion. The impact of the fall or collision can cause damage to the discs.
Truck Accidents - Accidents involving an 18-wheeler or an Amazon Delivery Vehicle often result in high-impact collisions due to the massive size and weight of the vehicles. The impact force can place tremendous stress on the spine, particularly in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions.
If the negligence or recklessness of another party left you with a disc extrusion, the best attorneys like Cohan PLLC can help you fight for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses you have experienced.
Symptoms of Disc Extrusion
Disc extrusion can result in various symptoms, which can vary depending on the location and severity of the extruded disc, as well as the degree of pressure on nearby nerves. Common symptoms include:
Back or Neck Pain
Radiating Pain
Numbness and Tingling
Muscle Weakness
Changes in Reflexes
However, not everyone with disc extrusion will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can also vary widely. Additionally, some individuals with disc extrusion may remain asymptomatic for periods of time, meaning they experience no noticeable symptoms.
Disc Extrusion Treatment
The treatment for disc extrusion can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the location of the extruded disc, and the individual's overall health. Treatment options can range from conservative, non-invasive approaches to surgical intervention. Here are common treatment options for disc extrusion:
Conservative Treatment:
Rest: Initially, rest may be recommended to reduce inflammation and allow the body to heal. Avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms is important.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be used to manage pain and discomfort.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to improve mobility, strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, and alleviate pressure on the affected nerves.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Epidural Steroid Injections: In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the extruded disc and provide pain relief.
Chiropractic Care and Alternative Therapies: Some individuals may find relief through chiropractic care, acupuncture, or other alternative therapies. However, the effectiveness of these approaches can vary.
Surgical Intervention:
Discectomy: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, or the symptoms are severe and affecting the quality of life, a discectomy may be considered. This surgical procedure involves the removal of the extruded disc material to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
Microdiscectomy: A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical approach to remove the extruded disc material through a small incision. It offers quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
Spinal Fusion: In cases with significant spine instability, spinal fusion surgery may be necessary. This involves joining two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.
Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy After Surgery: Following surgical intervention, rehabilitation and physical therapy are often essential to help restore mobility, strength, and function in the affected area.
Does Disc Extrusion Require Surgery?
Disc extrusion does not always require surgery. The choice of treatment for disc extrusion depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, the location of the extruded disc, the presence of neurological deficits, and the individual's overall health.
Many cases of disc extrusion can be effectively managed with non-surgical, conservative approaches. These may include rest, physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments do not provide relief or when severe symptoms significantly impact an individual's quality of life.
Cohan PLLC Can Help You Rebuild Your Life
If you or a family member were involved in an accident that has caused a disc extrusion or another type of disc injury, you know that the chronic pain associated with this injury makes daily life difficult or impossible. You will need time off work, medical treatments, and maybe even surgery to correct your disc extrusion. Because of this, you will face large bills. Cohan PLLC fights for the people whose lives have been devastated by the negligence of others.
Our initial consultation is always 100% free. You will not owe us any money unless we win. Our construction accident attorneys are always waiting to help.
We’ve committed ourselves to represent the victims of every kind of accident—so they can get everything they need to recover. Whatever it takes.
