The major functions of spine include supporting body, protecting nervous system and controlling activities. There are totally 33 vertebrae in human spine. In between the vertebra, there is a soft tissue structure called intervertebral disc, which involves in shock absorption.
The central nervous system may be compressed when there is prolapsed intervertebral disc. Motor or sensory deficit of different area may be present according to the level of compression. For example, compression at cervical level could affect head, neck and upper limb; compression at lumbar level could affect buttock and lower limbs. Patients may experience weakness, numbness or pain. In severe case, there may be urinary or fecal incontinence.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) could help to visualise the condition of prolapsed intervertebral disc and formulate treatment plan.
Physiotherapy may be able to relief the symptoms. Surgery could be considered if there is no improvement after conservative treatment.
* Please consult doctors for more details.