While you might expect to go to the doctor’s office and receive a slipped disc diagnosis if you have been experiencing chronic back or neck pain, this likely won’t be the case. That’s because a slipped disc isn’t really a condition as much as it is a colloquial expression that is used to describe pain in the back or neck. With that said, while you don’t really need to worry about your disc “slipping”, per se, the intervertebral discs that cushion the spine are susceptible to becoming ruptured or bulged, which could account for your symptoms. In order to determine what exactly is happening in your spinal column, it is essential that you enlist the services of a medical professional.

Each intervertebral disc is made of two main parts: a thick outer wall (annulus fibrosus) and gel-like inner disc material (nucleus pulposus). When these two components work together correctly, they allow the disc to be strong enough to separate adjacent vertebrae but flexible enough to allow for regular movement. The problem is that over the years these discs are susceptible to succumb to wear and tear, especially in the lower back and in the neck where the spine is particularly flexible and burdened by body weight. As time marches on, the annulus fibrosus can dry out and weaken, which can cause the disc wall to bulge beyond its normal parameters and irritate a nearby nerve root or the spinal cord. Similarly, the disc wall can rupture, allowing the nucleus pulposus to seep into the spinal canal and cause nerve constriction.

In order to diagnose this problem (the slipped disc diagnosis that you might be expecting), you need to visit a doctor for a full examination. Only by first locating the exact location, cause, and severity of the problem can a treatment plan be devised.

The diagnosis process varies from doctor to doctor, but in most cases it will include three steps. First, the doctor will likely ask you specific questions about your condition, family medical history, and your lifestyle, as even the smallest detail can be instrumental in identifying the cause of your problem. For instance, risk factors such as participation in high impact sports, having a line of work that requires frequent lifting, or abusing alcohol can all contribute to long-term degenerative spine problems.

Once the initial question-and-answer phase is completed, the next step is usually a physical examination where the doctor will palpate the area around the back or neck, applying periodic pressure in order to identify the source of the problem and any clear structural issues. This might be slightly uncomfortable but is extremely important in framing the doctor’s opinion. Finally, the use of medical imagery, such as CT scan, MRI, or X-ray may all be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that no other underlying issue is to blame for your condition.

To learn more about the conditions you might have instead of a slipped disc, the diagnosis process, and for information about possible treatment plans, speak with a doctor today.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for individuals who have recently received a slipped disc diagnosis.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for individuals who have recently received a slipped disc diagnosis http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/slipped_disc/dianosis/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for individuals who have recently received a slipped disc diagnosis.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: slipped disc diagnosis