Lumbar Disc Prolapse
What is it?
A Lumbar Disc Prolapse is when the soft inner core of the discs, that are located between the vertebrae in your lumbar spine (lower back) extrude through a tear in the outer ring. This can put pressure on nerve roots in the area leading to pain felt in other parts of the body.
Symptoms
• Lower back and/or leg pain • Weakness in legs, ankles feet and toes • Numbness or tingling in legs or feet • Radiating leg and foot pain • Loss of bladder or bowel control (rare)
When to see a doctor or consider surgery?
You should see your doctor if symptoms are severe, that do not improve over time and/or worsen. Surgery can be considered if non surgical treatments do not relieve symptoms. If you experience any 'Red Flags' (Symptoms requiring immidiate attention) you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
How is it diagnosed?
An appointment with your doctor is normally enough to diagnose a prolapsed disc, they will use your medical history and symptoms to help the diagnosis. A physical examination may be carried out to examine posture whilst standing and walking, as well as muscle strength and reflexes.