Overview
Spinal disc problems refer to conditions affecting the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae in the spine. These problems commonly include herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and bulging discs, causing back pain, nerve irritation, and mobility issues. South Korea offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options through specialized spine centers and rehabilitation clinics.
What are Spinal Disc Problems?
Spinal disc problems occur when the discs between vertebrae become damaged, displaced, or degenerated. A herniated disc happens when the inner gel-like core leaks out, compressing nearby nerves. Degenerative disc disease involves the gradual breakdown of discs with aging. These conditions can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, especially if nerves in the spine are affected.
Symptoms
- Localized back or neck pain
- Radiating pain to arms or legs (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Muscle weakness in affected limbs
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Reduced range of motion in the spine
Causes
- Age-related wear and tear (degeneration)
- Sudden injury or trauma to the spine
- Repetitive stress or heavy lifting
- Poor posture or ergonomics
- Genetic predisposition to disc degeneration
Risk Factors
- Middle-aged and older adults
- Jobs requiring heavy physical labor or prolonged sitting
- Obesity increasing spinal load
- Smoking, which impairs disc nutrition
- Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
Complications
- Chronic pain and disability
- Nerve damage leading to weakness or paralysis
- Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases (cauda equina syndrome)
- Reduced quality of life and mental health issues due to chronic pain
Prevention
- Maintaining good posture and ergonomics
- Regular exercise focusing on core strengthening
- Avoiding heavy lifting or using proper techniques
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking to improve disc health
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea offers comprehensive care for spinal disc problems with advanced technology and multidisciplinary teams.
- Diagnosis
- Physical examination and neurological assessment
- Imaging studies such as MRI and CT scans to visualize discs and nerves
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function
- Conservative Management
- Pain relief with NSAIDs or muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy including stretching, strengthening, and posture correction
- Epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Microdiscectomy to remove herniated disc material
- Percutaneous discectomy or nucleoplasty to reduce disc pressure
- Surgical Intervention
- Spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement in severe cases
- Decompression surgeries to relieve nerve pressure
- Rehabilitation
- Postoperative physical therapy for recovery
- Lifestyle counseling to prevent recurrence
