Lumbar Disc Treatment in Delhi, India

Lumbar disc disease, also referred to as herniated disc, is an injury that affects the lumbar region of the spinal cord (backbone). The spinal cord consists of about 33 vertebrae, which is divided into five regions - cervical (7 vertebrae), thoracic (12 vertebrae), lumbar (5 vertebrae), sacral (5 vertebrae), and coccyx (4 vertebrae).

Between the vertebrae, rubbery cushion-like structures called discs are located. These discs act as shock absorbers and help the spine bend and move around. About 2% of individuals are diagnosed with a herniated disc each year.

Types of Lumbar Disc

Bulging disc

The disc is composed of a soft centre called a nucleus surrounded by a tough exterior, annulus. In this condition, the annulus breaks down, causing the nucleus to bulge out.

Ruptured or herniated

Continued disc breakdown causes the nucleus to rupture via the annulus leading to a ruptured or herniated disc.

Lumbar Disc Causes

Lumbar disc disease can be caused due to-

• Ageing
• Severe injury
• Improper lifting of heavy objects and twists.

Lumbar Disc Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of lumbar disc disease include-

• Back pain: Continuous or intermittent pain worsened during sneezing, coughing, movement, or standing for a prolonged period.
• Spasms
• Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot.
• Muscle weakness
• Bowel or bladder dysfunction
• Sciatica: A pain that begins from the buttock or back and radiates down the leg to the foot.

Lumbar Disc Diagnosis and Tests

The doctor would perform a thorough examination to assess the patient’s medical history, signs, symptoms, muscle strength, reflexes, etc. In addition, the doctor may also recommend the following tests-

X-ray scan

An X-ray test would be recommended to rule out other causes of pain

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create detailed slices of bones, muscles, etc.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan

MRI is the most preferred test for diagnosing a herniated disk.

Myelogram

This test helps better visualise the spine in X-ray or CT scans. The procedure involves injecting a contrast material (dye) into the spinal canal.

Electromyography (EMG)

This test helps identify the nerve affected by the herniated disc.

Doctors who treat lumbar disc disease are called orthopaedic spine specialists.

Lumbar Disc Treatment

Depending upon the severity of the pain, the doctor may recommend the following treatment strategies:

Medications

Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, and muscle relaxants are commonly prescribed for managing lumbar disc disease. Sometimes, steroids are directly injected into the spine.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy improves circulation and loosens muscles.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery would be performed to remove the herniated disc. The following lifestyle modifications can also be adopted to reduce the severity-

• Exercise regularly.
• Quit smoking.
• Ensure proper lifting of weights.
• Maintain proper body weight.

Risk Factors of Lumbar Disc

Factors that increase the risk of lumbar disc disease include-

• Smoking: Smoking is thought to interfere with the oxygen supply to the disc. This accelerates the breakdown of the disc.
• Weight: Overweight can cause stress to the discs of the lower back.
• Occupation: Individuals involved in physically challenging jobs are at increased risk of developing lumbar disc disease. Repetitive movements like pulling, lifting, twisting, bending, etc., increase the risk of a herniated disc.
• Genetics: Some individuals have an inherited liability to develop lumbar disc disease.

Cost of Lumbar Disc Replacement Surgery

To obtain an accurate estimate of the Lumbar Disc Replacement Surgery Cost at BLK-Max Hospital in Delhi, various factors such as the type of surgery, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's expertise, the severity of the condition, and the patient's condition need to be considered.
To receive an estimate, individuals can book an appointment with an expert or complete the quick enquiry form available on the Hospital's Website. It is important to note that the final cost may fluctuate depending on any additional diagnostic procedures needed, the specific type of room chosen, and the precise condition being treated.

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