Lumbar Disc Herniation (LUMBAR Discopathy)

A herniated disc manifests itself with pain radiating from the waist down to the leg. A herniated disc (lumbar discopathy) is a condition that occurs when the cartilage between the vertebrae, known as the lumbar disc, protrudes and compresses the nerve roots traveling down the leg. The causes are usually mechanical; the most common causes are prolonged posture, poor sitting posture, excess weight, weakness of the lower back and abdominal muscles, trauma, and sudden or prolonged increases in load on the lumbar vertebrae and discs. The degenerating disc material, whose gelatinous structure deteriorates, initially protrudes slightly, a process known as bulging. As the disease progresses, the disc material protrudes further, compressing the nerves, a process known as protrusion. In the next stage, the disc material protrudes significantly into the spinal canal, completely compressing the nerves, a process known as extrusion.

The most prominent clinical sign of a herniated disc is pain radiating from the hip down the leg. Depending on the degree of nerve root compression and the degree of herniated disc, numbness and weakness may also occur along with pain. In rare cases, urinary incontinence may also occur. A herniated disc most commonly develops in the discs between the 4th and 5th vertebrae, or between the 5th vertebra and the sacrum.

A definitive diagnosis is made based on the patient's history, physical examination, and, if necessary, a lumbar CT or MRI.

If the patient experiences severe pain that does not respond to medications, has experienced weakness in the foot or leg, or urinary incontinence, surgery is recommended. In other cases, medical and conservative methods are preferred.