How Can a Herniated Disc Cause Nerve Pain?
A herniated disc causes nerve pain when the inner gel-like substance of the disc pushes through the outer layer and presses against nearby nerves. The spinal cord and nerves run through the spinal column, and any displacement of a disc can compress these delicate structures. When a herniated disc presses on a nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the area of the body served by that nerve. For example, a herniated disc in the lumbar spine may compress the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates down the leg, a condition known as sciatica.
The pressure on the nerve disrupts its normal function, leading to radiculopathy, or nerve pain, that can be felt in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by sensations of numbness or weakness in the affected muscles. If left untreated, prolonged nerve compression can cause permanent damage, leading to chronic pain or loss of function in the affected limb. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment for herniated disc-related nerve pain to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
