Back and neck pain are common issues that many people face at some point in their lives. One of the most frequent causes behind such discomfort is a condition called PIVD, or Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc. Though the name may sound complicated, it refers to a well-known spinal problem that can lead to significant pain and discomfort if not managed properly.
This guide explains PIVD in simple terms: what it is, why it happens, how it affects your body, and what you can do about it.
Understanding the Spine and Intervertebral Discs
To understand PIVD, it’s essential to first understand the structure of the spine.
Your spine is a structure created by a series of bones called vertebrae. An intervertebral disc is a soft, gel-like cushion that sits between each vertebra. These discs serve two main purposes: they absorb shock from daily movements like walking, bending, or lifting, and they allow flexibility and motion in the spine.
Each disc has two parts:
- The nucleus pulposus, which is the soft, jelly-like centre
- The annulus fibrosus, which is the tough, outer layer that keeps the centre in place
Healthy discs are crucial for maintaining spinal alignment and preventing friction between vertebrae.
What Happens in PIVD?
PIVD occurs when the inner core of the disc (nucleus pulposus) bulges out or leaks through a tear in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This condition is also commonly referred to as a herniated disc, slipped disc, or ruptured disc.
When this happens, the displaced disc material can press on nearby spinal nerves or even the spinal cord. This pressure leads to various symptoms, depending on the disc’s location and severity of the prolapse. PIVD can happen in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions.
Why PIVD Causes Pain?
The spinal cord and spinal nerves are extremely sensitive structures. When a prolapsed disc presses on these nerves, it disrupts normal nerve function.
This leads to:
- Local pain: At the site of the prolapsed disc
- Radiating pain: In areas served by the affected nerve, such as the arms, shoulders, legs, or feet
- Numbness or tingling: Due to nerve irritation
- Muscle weakness: If motor nerves are compressed
- Stiffness or restricted movement: Due to inflammation and muscle guarding
For example, a PIVD in the lower back may result in sciatica, which causes pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of PIVD.
These include:
- Ageing: With age, spinal discs naturally lose hydration and flexibility, making them more prone to damage.
- Repetitive stress: Lifting heavy objects without proper technique can place excessive pressure on the spine.
- Sudden injury or trauma: Falls or accidents can rupture a disc.
- Poor posture: Sitting or standing with poor alignment increases the load on spinal discs.
- Obesity: Extra body weight increases strain on the spine.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity weakens the muscles that support the spine.
- Smoking: It reduces oxygen flow to discs, accelerating degeneration.
Knowing these risk factors can help in preventing the onset of PIVD or slowing its progression.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
The symptoms of PIVD can mimic other spinal conditions, so an accurate diagnosis is essential. Doctors usually perform a combination of:
- Physical examination
- Neurological tests to check reflexes, strength, and sensation
- Imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to visualise the affected disc
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the neck, lower back, or between the shoulder blades
- Radiating pain in the arms or legs
- Tingling, numbness, or pins-and-needles sensation
- Difficulty standing, sitting, or walking
- In severe cases, bladder or bowel dysfunction (a medical emergency)
Treatment and Recovery
The good news is that most cases of PIVD can be treated without surgery. The body often heals itself over time as the inflammation subsides and the disc material gets reabsorbed. Non-surgical treatments focus on relieving symptoms and restoring function.
1. Physiotherapy
Specific exercises help strengthen back and core muscles, improve posture, and restore spinal alignment.
2. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Treatment
A non-invasive treatment that gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on the affected disc and nerve. Non-surgical spinal decompression treatment helps promote disc healing and pain relief.
3. Pain Management
Includes heat/cold therapy, TENS (electrical nerve stimulation), and medications if necessary (used cautiously and short-term).
4. Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding prolonged sitting or poor lifting techniques are key to preventing recurrence.
5. Ergonomic Corrections
Adjusting your workstation, sleep posture, and daily habits can significantly reduce strain on your spine.
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is considered only if non-surgical treatments fail after several weeks or months. It may also be necessary if there is:
- Progressive muscle weakness
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Severe, unmanageable pain
Surgical options include microdiscectomy or spinal fusion, but these are typically last resorts.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
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