Herniated discs can occur in people of all ages. They are most common in people between 35 and 45 years old.Many people have a herniated disc in the back and are not aware of it because they have no symptoms of leg or back pain. However, for some people hernia¡­¡­

What is a herniated disc? Learn what it is and what causes it. The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine in your back are cushioned by small, spongy discs. When these discs are healthy, they act as shock absorbers for the spine and keep the spine flexible.

Tools to help you make decisions about herniated disc treatment. Health tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.

A herniated disc usually is caused by wear and tear of the disc (also called disc degeneration). As we age, our vertebral discs lose some of the fluid that helps them maintain flexibility. A herniated disc also may result from injuries to the spine.

Symptoms of a herniated disc vary greatly depending on the position of the herniated disc and the size of the herniation. If the herniated disc is:Not pressing on a nerve, you may have a low backache or no symptoms at all.

The gradual wearing out of spinal discs is a natural part of aging that can often lead to a herniated disc. However, only a few people who have herniated discs have severe or troublesome symptoms.

Find out what makes you more likely to get a herniated disc.

Find out when to call a doctor about a herniated disc.

Your health professional will evaluate your symptoms of leg and back pain using a medical history and physical examination.

Learn about treatment of herniated disc.

Measures that may help prevent low back pain or a herniated disc include maintaining an ideal body weight and quitting smoking.

Learn about home treatments for herniated discs.

Information on medications used to treat herniated discs.

Read about surgery for herniated discs.

Learn about rehabilitation, exercise, and complementary and alternative treatments for a herniated disc.

A list of resources for information on and treatment of herniated disc.

Information on conditions related to herniated disc.

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