Slip Disc Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Experiencing persistent back pain can disrupt daily life, but when the pain radiates to the legs and interferes with routine activities, it may indicate a serious issue such as a slipped disc. This blog explores the symptoms of a slipped disc and highlights when to seek medical attention, as illustrated by a patient’s journey with the Spine Surgery Specialist in Pune, Dr. Sangram Rajale.
The Patient’s Case
- A 20-year-old Female patient sought help from Dr. Sangram Rajale at the Top Spine Pain Clinic in Pune after suffering leg pain for six months. Her symptoms intensified due to a sudden movement during travel.
She Presented with
Pain Characteristics :- Radiating leg pain, aggravated by movement, temporarily relieved by medication.
Dr. Rajale conducted a thorough assessment, revealing:
MRI Insights revealed issues at 2 levels L45 and L5S1 :
- Neurogenic Claudication:Leg pain after walking for five minutes.
- Additional Symptoms:Tingling, numbness, and sleep disturbances.
Dr. Rajale conducted a thorough assessment, revealing:
-
- Pain over the lumbo-sacral region and left sacroiliac joint.
- Difficulty walking on heels and toes.
- Positive SLR (Straight Leg Raise) test, indicating nerve irritation.
MRI Insights revealed issues at 2 levels L45 and L5S1 :
- L4-L5:A tear in the outer disc with mild nerve impingement.
- L5-S1:Disc material pressing on the spinal cord and nerves on both sides.
Conservative trial in the form of mdications was tried on her but with limited success. Hence
Surgical Intervention was planed
Given the severity of her symptoms, Dr. Sangram Rajale performed a left-sided L5-S1 microdiscectomy on September 10, 2024. This minimally invasive procedure involved removing the herniated portion of the disc to alleviate nerve pressure.
- Immediate pain relief and restored mobility.
- Walking resumed on day 1
- Stair climbing on day 2.
- Discharged on day 3 with a healthy wound.
- At 15 days: She felt as though no surgery had occurred.
- At 3 months: She resumed all routine activities pain-free, including prolonged standing and stair climbing.
The patient expressed immense gratitude for the care and expertise of Dr. Sangram Rajale, highlighting the importance of timely intervention.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the following, consult a spine specialist immediately:
Timely diagnosis and treatment from experts like Dr. Sangram Rajale can prevent complications and significantly improve quality of life.
- Persistent back pain radiating to the legs.
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the lower limbs.
- Pain exacerbated by movement and not relieved by rest or medication.
- Difficulty walking or performing routine tasks.
Timely diagnosis and treatment from experts like Dr. Sangram Rajale can prevent complications and significantly improve quality of life.
Conclusion
A slip disc can significantly impact daily life, but timely diagnosis and treatment can restore comfort and mobility. With the expertise of Dr. Sangram Rajale, a trusted spine specialist in Pune, patients receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs. Whether you require non-surgical management or advanced surgical interventions, Dr. Rajale ensures exceptional outcomes for a pain-free life.
Take charge of your spine health today—schedule a consultation with Dr. Sangram Rajale at the top spine clinic in Pune for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Take charge of your spine health today—schedule a consultation with Dr. Sangram Rajale at the top spine clinic in Pune for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Q and A
Understanding Slip Disc
- What is a Slip Disc?
A slip disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher exterior. This condition can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain and other symptoms. Common causes include:
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly.
- Poor posture.
- Aging and wear-and-tear of spinal discs.
- Who is at Risk?
- Individuals aged 30-50.
- Those with sedentary lifestyles.
- People with physically demanding jobs involving repetitive bending or heavy lifting.
Common Symptoms of Slip Disc
- Pain Symptoms :
- Back pain that radiates to the arms or legs.
- Pain worsened by sitting, bending, or coughing.
- Nerve-Related Symptoms :
- Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or extremities.
- Muscle weakness, making it hard to perform daily tasks.
- Other Indications :
- Difficulty standing or walking for long periods.
- Severe cases may involve loss of bowel or bladder control.
Diagnostic Procedures for Slip Disc
Physical Examination : Evaluating posture, mobility, and nerve reflexes.
Imaging Tests : MRI and CT scans to identify the severity and location of the slip disc.
Neurological Tests: Assessing nerve functionality to confirm compression.
Treatment Options for Slip Disc
- Non-Surgical Treatments :
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercises for spine strength and flexibility.
- Pain Management: Medications or steroid injections.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Proper ergonomics and activity modifications.
- Surgical Interventions :
Severe cases may require procedures like microdiscectomy or spinal fusion. At the top spine clinic in Pune, Dr. Rajale uses advanced techniques to ensure successful outcomes.
FAQs About Slip Disc Symptoms
Q: What causes a slip disc?
Repetitive strain, poor posture, or sudden trauma.
Q: How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies but generally spans weeks to months, depending on treatment.
Q: Can slip disc symptoms resolve on their own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and non-surgical care.
Q: What are the risks of untreated slip disc?
Chronic pain, nerve damage, and reduced mobility.
Q: Is surgery always necessary?
No, surgery is only recommended for severe cases unresponsive to other treatments
