Herniated Disk
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
A herniated disk refers to a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (disks) that sit between the bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine.
Signs and symptoms:
• Arm or leg pain.
If your herniated disk is in your lower back, besides pain in your lower back, you'll typically feel pain in your buttocks, thigh and calf. You might have pain in part of the foot as well.
For a herniated disk in your neck, you'll typically feel the most pain in your shoulder and arm. This pain might shoot into your arm or leg when you cough, sneeze or move into certain positions. Pain is often described as sharp or burning.
• Numbness or tingling.
People who have a herniated disk often have radiating numbness or tingling in the body part served by the affected nerves.
• Weakness.
Muscles served by the affected nerves tend to weaken. This can cause you to stumble, or affect your ability to lift or hold items.
Diagnosis
X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, Myelogram
Treatment
- Ibuprofen (advil) 200-400 mg PO q4-6hr
- Inj. prednisolone (Depo medrol) into spinal cord
- Cap. Gabapentin (Gabix) 100mg at night for 4 weeks