According to a 2006 report by the Canadian Institute for Health Information, back problems are one of the main causes of pain-related disability in Canada. Among the many causes of back pain, disc herniations are a common culprit. Specifically, herniated discs at the L5-S1 level, where the low back meets the tailbone, are a relatively frequent occurrence, accounting for the majority of lumbar disc herniations. In our clinic, we often get many questions about disc herniations and today’s blog is dedicated to answering some of those questions.
How Serious is a L5-S1 Disc Herniation and What Causes Them?
A herniated disc in the L5-S1 region can cause significant pain and discomfort and may even result in nerve damage or loss of function if left untreated. However, with proper treatment and management, most people are able to recover from their intense pain and manage their symptoms, so they can resume normal activities. The seriousness of a disc herniation can vary depending on what stage the herniation is at, how it was injured, and the severity of symptoms you experience.
DIsc Herniations can have a alrge number of causes. Part of a thorough examination includes exploring your health history. If you are currently atheltic or were athletic in your youth, have a history of car accidents, or suffered a slip and fall, these can all cause disc herniations.
What Are Symptoms of a L5-S1 Disc Herniation?
Symptoms associated with a L5-S1 disc herniation can cause a range of symptoms, including local or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet. Some people may also experience difficulty walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods of time. The typical pain pattern of a disc herniation will go past the knee and even into the feet or toes.
If you experience these symptoms, it may be suitable to pay our Hamilton Chiropractors at Rosedale Chiropractic & Massage Clinic a visit for a thorough assessment and diagnosis that will help you lay out a plan of care for recovery.
What Treatment Options Do I Have?
Treatment for a L5-S1 disc herniation typically involves a combination of rest, Chiropractic care for pain management, and in extreme cases, surgery. In most cases, conservative treatments such as rest and physical therapy are effective in reducing pain and promoting healing. However, surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments are not effective or if the herniation is causing significant nerve damage.
If you are considering taking anti-inflammatory medications or surgical options, it is best to contact your Medical Doctor for recommendations.
How long does an L5 S1 herniated disc take to heal?
The length of time it takes for a L5-S1 herniated disc to heal varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's overall health. In many cases, symptoms may improve within a few weeks to a few months with conservative treatment, but it may take up to a year for a full recovery. However, in some cases, chronic pain and other symptoms may persist even with treatment.
Conclusion
Disc herniations are common causes for both local or radiating back pain. The most common site of a disc herniation is usually the lowest point of the back, at the L5-S1 levels, where the low back meets the tailbone. We have briefly discussed treatment options here today but there is much more to be learned.
If you think you may want more information, don't hesitate to reach out to the clinic at 905-545-7570 or explore our website further.
"Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Population-Based Study of Incidence and Symptomatic Outcomes." Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, vol. 94, no. 4, 2012, pp. 1-9. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.K.00588.
"Back Problems: A Leading Cause of Disability in Canada." Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2016. https://www.cihi.ca/sites/default/files/document/back-problems-2016-infographic-en-web.pdf
"Prevalence and Characteristics of Chronic Pain in Canada." Pain Research and Management, vol. 2011, 2011, pp. 1-10. doi: 10.1155/2011/876306.
"Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Review of Current Concepts in Diagnosis and Management." European Spine Journal, vol. 23, no. 6, 2014, pp. 1194-1209. doi: 10.1007/s00586-014-3297-0.
"Lumbar Disc Herniation." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2019, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000442.htm.

Comments