Many people are unaware of the differences between spinal stenosis and a herniated disc. Spinal stenosis and herniated discs can both be very serious and even disabling health conditions. It’s important to have a basic understanding of the difference between them in order to seek proper treatment and make sure that any underlying issues are properly addressed. In this guide, we will explain the differences between a herniated disc and spinal stenosis as well as the symptoms, treatments, and potential outcomes of each.
What are Herniated Discs and Spinal Stenosis?
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc is a condition where a disc in your spine has deteriorated enough that the jelly-like center is pushing out, or herniates, through the harder outer part of the disc. This can result in pressure on the nerve root and surrounding tissue. Herniated discs can occur anywhere in the spine and mainly occur in the lower back, but they can also occur in the neck.
Symptoms of Herniated Discs
Symptoms of herniated disc in the lower back can include sharp lower back pain when moving, muscles weakness, numbness, and pain that radiates down the legs, especially when standing or walking. Symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck may include neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, and pain down the arms.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal, which can cause compression of the spinal cord and the nerve roots. The narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors including disc herniation, arthritis, or the buildup of scar tissue. It typically occurs in the lower back and neck.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Common symptoms of spinal stenosis include pain in the lower back, neck, or legs, numbness, tingling, and weakness. It can also cause difficulty walking.
Risk Factors for Developing Herniated Discs or Spinal Stenosis
Risk factors for developing a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can include aging, obesity, injury, degenerative disc disease, and genetic factors.
Diagnosing Herniated Discs or Spinal Stenosis
Diagnosis of herniated discs or spinal stenosis often includes CT scans, MRI scans, and physical exams.
Treatment for Herniated Discs or Spinal Stenosis
Treatment for herniated discs or spinal stenosis may include physical therapy, medications, spinal injections, and in extreme cases, surgery.
Preventing Herniated Discs or Spinal Stenosis
Prevention of herniated discs or spinal stenosis includes staying active, stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding lifting heavy objects.
People Also Ask
Is a herniated disc the same as a slipped disc?
No, a herniated disc is when the jelly-like center of the disc pushes out, whereas a slipped disc is when the entire disc moves out of place.
What causes a herniated disc?
Herniated discs are usually caused by age-related wear and tear, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
Are herniated discs serious?
Herniated discs can be very serious and even disabling health conditions. It’s important to seek proper treatment if you think you may have a herniated disc.
What is the difference between spinal stenosis and scoliosis?
Spinal stenosis is an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal which can cause compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots, while scoliosis is a condition resulting in an abnormal curvature of the spine.
Can spinal stenosis be cured?
Spinal stenosis cannot be cured, but it can be managed and treated with physical therapy, medications, spinal injections, or in extreme cases, surgery.
Final Words
Herniated discs and spinal stenosis are two very different yet serious health conditions. It’s important to understand the differences between them in order to get the best care and treatment possible. If you think you may have a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, consult a doctor or highly-trained medical professional who can properly diagnose and treat the condition.