Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation (herniated nucleus pulposus) is prolapse of nucleus pulposus through annulus fibrosus, most often at L4-L5/L5-S1, causing nerve root compression. Clinical: low back pain, radicular leg pain (sciatica), numbness, weakness, positive straight-leg raise, cauda equina syndrome (rare, urgent). Diagnosis: lumbar MRI (gold standard), X-ray, CT. Treatment: conservative: short rest (1-2 days), NSAIDs, gabapentin/pregabalin, muscle relaxants, PT (core strengthening, McKenzie), epidural steroid injections, activity modification; surgical: microdiscectomy/open discectomy for refractory pain, progressive weakness, or cauda equina; post-op rehab; follow-up orthopedics/neurosurgery/neurology/PT.

Common Symptoms

Low back pain; sciatica; leg numbness/weakness; positive SLR

Causes and Pathogenesis

Degenerative/traumatic annulus tear causes nucleus prolapse and nerve root compression.

Treatment

Conservative: rest/NSAIDs/PT/epidural; surgical: discectomy

Preventive Measures

Core strengthening; proper lifting; weight control; posture.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Orthopedics/Neurosurgery/Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.