Can Hernia Cause Back Pain?

Can hernia cause back pain? The short answer is Yes. When both conditions occur together people start worrying which condition is causing the other one. There can be several factors associated with both conditions. But it is always advisable to visit a doctor for better diagnosis and treatment. After proper evaluation pain management specialists will reach the root cause of the problem and will help you to fight with both conditions.

“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind, and spirit." — B.K.S. Iyengar

Types of Hernia Related to Back Pain

There are several types of hernias but hernia which is related to back pain are 

• Abdominal hernias 
• Spinal hernias

• Spinal Hernia

Spinal hernia is also known as herniated disc or slipped disc, which occurs when one of the discs present between the spine ruptures or bulges out. A thoracic (mid-back) neck strain, cervical (neck) neck strain, or a lumbar (lower back) back strain can occur in the spine. 

Symptoms related to herniated disc

• Numbness,
• Weakness in the arms, legs, or back. 
• Localized or radiating pain
• Tingling

Lumbar Triangle Hernia

An apparent swelling or bulge in the lower back may show the presence of a lumbar triangle hernia. It is commonly referred to as Also known as Petit hernias or Grynfeltt-Lesshaft hernias. A superior lumbar triangle injury occurs in the lower back. Fascia and muscles are present around this small anatomical space. Moreover, hernia is painful.

Risk Factors

Several factors may enhance your risk of herniated discs. These are:

• Gender

Men of age 20 and 50 are more prone to suffer from herniated discs.

• Improper lifting

If you put pressure on your back instead of putting on legs, then you are more prone to face herniated discs. Twisting while lifting can also be the reason behind your back pain along with herniated disc. Try to lift things in a proper and balanced way.

• Weight 

The discs in your lower back are subjected to extra stress when you are overweight.

• Recurring Activities

Physical exertion may be necessary to pull, lift, bend, or twist constantly in some instances. Your back can be protected by using movement techniques and safe lifting.

•  Frequent Driving

Frequently seating on the driving seat for a longer period of time can put strain on your discs and spine.

• Sedentary (not active) lifestyle 

Exercise and stretches can prevent a number of medical conditions, like herniated discs.

• Smoking

Smoking is considered as the accelerator of degeneration of the disc because it reduces supply of oxygen.

Testing & Diagnosis

Below is a list of testing modes. 

• X-ray

X-ray is necessary to obtain an image of the spine to find whether there are any other possible causes of pain, such as infections, tumors, fractures, etc.

•  CT or CAT Scan

An image from a CT scan shows the contents of the spinal canal, as well as the structures that surround it.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

By using computer technology and powerful magnets, a diagnostic test can generate three-dimensional images of body structures. There can be enlargements, degeneration, and tumors seen on a spinal MRI, as well as nerve roots, spinal cord, and surrounding areas.

• Myelography

This procedure is used to find the bulging and herniated disc by using a liquid dye followed by CT scan or X-Ray. 

• Electromyogram and Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS)

This test will show whether there is ongoing nerve damage, whether the nerves are healing after a previous injury or whether there is another area where the nerves are pinched. The ordering of this test is rare.

Treatment 

Herniated disc and back pain can be treated in different ways and some of them are as follows.

•  Interventional Spine and Pain Injections

The purpose of interventional spine and pain injections is to reduce the inflammation and pain caused by the affected discs and to minimize the intensity of pain. Moreover, radiofrequency treatments are helpful in conjunction with lumbar injections.

•  Acupuncture

Acupuncture is actually a part of Chinese tradition and it is done by using tiny needles to release the endorphins in the body. Mostly, acupuncturists mostly use reflexology maps to identify the spine points.

•  Physical Therapy

In cases of hernias causing back pain, especially herniated discs, physical therapy is generally considered the best treatment option. Besides helping to reduce pressure, it also gives strength to muscles to help reduce pressure as well. You can also receive assistance from a physical therapist in preparing your body for surgery.

Physical therapy can be used to aid in hernia recovery and relieve back pain caused by hernias, including: 

•  Manual Therapy  

During this procedure, scar tissue surrounding the hernia is loosen up. During the treatment, they can release painful tension and decrease spinal pressure by breaking up the tissue.

• MyoKinesthetic Therapy 

Myokinesthetic therapy enhances mobility and reduces back pain by treating areas of pain within the nervous system.

• Exercises 

An experienced physical therapist can design a program that reduces your back pain in a safe and effective manner, taking into account your body's capabilities. Exercise is an essential component of surgical rehabilitation in order to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion that were lost during surgery.

Takeaway

Either you suffer from herniated disc or back pain alone or together, and reach the doctor before it gets too late. Health should never be compromised. Hernias are treated according to their location and underlying causes. But never hesitate to book an appointment at Pain Relief Clinic Cleburne, as we always do, we warmly welcome our patients and strive to provide the best treatment possible.