A pinched nerve in the back, slipped disc or herniated disc are all terms people use to describe the condition of lower back and leg pain related to a herniated intervertebral disc. Remember, the disc acts as a shock absorber for the spine. Excessive wear and tear along with excessive stress could cause the disc to become injured. This injury could lead to herniation of the disc material against the nerve root or tension to the nerve root.
Because of the structure of the vertebral bodies and spinal ligaments the protrusion of the disc usually occurs toward the back and to one side or the other of the canal. Also, because of the orientation of the exit of a nerve root from the spinal column, the herniated disc usually affects the nerve root one level above the actual level of herniation.
Sneezing or coughing can increase the pressure in the area of nerve compression and actually increase the immediate pain. Also, bending can increase the discomfort.
I’m Steve Taylor, Physical Therapist of Southern Physical and Occupational Therapy Services
Moving You To A Pain-Free Lifestyle
