Intervertebral hernia

The human spine consists of 32–33 vertebrae and is divided into five main sections. The cervical section supports the head and allows it to move in various directions. The first cervical vertebra plays a special role, connecting the spine to the skull. The thoracic section, together with the ribs, forms the rib cage, which protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The lumbar section is the largest and strongest, as it bears the primary load during physical activity. It is responsible for bending and straightening the torso and for movements in various planes. The lumbar vertebrae are often prone to changes, including the formation of intervertebral hernias. The sacral and coccygeal sections participate in pelvic movements.

Intervertebral discs are elastic structures located between the vertebrae. They consist of two main components: the fibrous ring and the nucleus pulposus. Their functions include:

• Shock absorption.
• Providing flexibility.
• Maintaining optimal distance between vertebrae.

The condition develops when the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc protrudes through tears in the fibrous ring, causing nerve compression and pain. Contributing factors include:

• Age-related changes. Over time, discs lose elasticity and moisture, and their structure loses the ability to regenerate.
• Excessive strain on the spine, such as heavy lifting or physical labor. Improper exercise technique or prolonged sitting can provoke the development of intervertebral hernias.
• Genetic predisposition associated with connective tissue characteristics and overall spinal structure.
• Injuries, such as falls, car accidents, or sports trauma. The effects of injuries may manifest over time as the disc becomes more vulnerable to strain.

A defect can occur in any section of the spine but is most commonly found in the lumbar and cervical sections. These areas endure the greatest stress.

The symptoms of the condition depend on its location and are not always pronounced. Key signs indicating a problem include:

• Back pain that intensifies during simple movements such as bending or turning.
• Radiating pain. Hernias in the lumbar section often compress nerve endings that extend to the extremities, causing tingling or numbness in the legs.
• Limited mobility. Patients may find it difficult to rise from a chair, bend, or turn due to muscle spasms triggered by pain.
• Muscle weakness, making it challenging to lift legs, perform simple tasks, or carry objects.

If you notice symptoms that suggest the condition, do not delay consulting a specialist. Early diagnosis at the New Life Clinic and proper treatment can help you return to an active lifestyle quickly.

If conservative treatment fails to deliver results within several months and symptoms worsen, surgery may be necessary. Primary indications for surgery include:

1. Severe pain that disrupts daily life.
2. Neurological symptoms, such as progressive numbness or loss of control over certain bodily functions.
3. Weakness in the limbs, indicating significant nerve compression.

Before surgery, patients undergo a preparatory phase. MRI or CT scans help accurately determine the location and size of the hernia. Blood and urine tests rule out other conditions and assess overall health. During consultations, specialists at the New Life Clinic explain what to expect from surgery and answer any questions patients may have.

Open microdiscectomy is a classic treatment method. The surgeon makes an incision in the back and removes the part of the disc compressing the nerve. Advantages of this method include a high success rate and direct access to the affected area. Alternative methods include:

• Laser removal of the hernia. This minimally invasive procedure involves evaporating part of the hernia with a laser through a small skin puncture. The effectiveness depends on the size of the hernia.
• Endoscopic discectomy. An endoscope is inserted through a small incision, and the procedure is monitored via a video camera. Advantages include minimal blood loss and reduced infection risk.

Specialists at the New Life Clinic perform surgeries of varying complexity. The clinic’s advantages include consultations with international colleagues, innovative equipment, and a wide range of services. For more information, contact the administrator via phone, messenger, or the online booking form on the website.