The lumbar spine forms the lower part of the spine and consists of 5 vertebrae. The intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, consist of a soft gelatinous core and an outer fibrous ring. In the case of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine, also known as a lumbar disc herniation, the inner core of the disc moves out of its position and can lead to various symptoms.
In a lumbar disc herniation, the displaced gelatinous core can press on surrounding nerves, causing pain and possibly numbness or weakness in the lower extremities. This symptomatology is often referred to as sciatica. However, the symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the herniation, and not every herniated disc causes pain. In some cases, they are even discovered incidentally during medical examinations. Treatment approaches range from pain medications and physical therapy to surgical interventions.
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A herniated disc in the lumbar spine can be problematic due to its steep nature and can impair the stability of the spine. Damage in this area can make movements difficult and cause misalignments of the vertebrae, leading to overloading of the surrounding vertebrae and discs.
Herniated discs in this area often occur between the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae or between the 5th lumbar vertebra and the sacrum, where the sciatic nerve also runs. Irritation of this nerve by the herniated disc can cause sciatica pain, which radiates from the spine through the buttocks to the legs and can cause numbness or tingling sensations.
If the symptoms do not subside with conservative therapy, surgery may be indicated. We are happy to personally advise you on the treatment options for a herniated disc in the lumbar spine in Düsseldorf. Schedule an appointment online or call us directly during our office hours at the respective practice phone number. We are always here for you.
The prognosis for a lumbar disc herniation is good. Many cases can be treated conservatively by your orthopedist in Düsseldorf through rest and physical therapy. The pain and possible accompanying inflammation of the nerve root irritated by the disc herniation can be alleviated with pain-relieving medications or targeted infiltration.
Surgical treatment of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine is only necessary if it has led to severe paralysis. In such cases, time is a crucial factor. The longer the pressure on the nerves persists, the lower the likelihood that the nerves will recover and the paralysis will subside. Therefore, in the case of neurological deficits, surgical intervention is immediately indicated.
Two surgical methods are considered for a disc operation: spinal fusion (spondylodesis) or the use of a disc prosthesis, which can maintain the mobility and flexibility of the affected spinal segments.
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