International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access

Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation commonly known as prolapsed disc or slipped disc occurs in the lower back, between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebra or between the fifth and the sacrum. Patients suffering from lumbar disc herniation show symptoms affecting the lower back, buttocks, thigh, anal/genital region, and may radiate into the foot and/or toe. A condition known as sciatica in which sciatic nerve is affected is most common. The femoral nerve can also be affected and cause the patient to experience a numb, tingling feeling throughout one or both legs and even a burning feeling in the hips and legs. Lumbar disc herniation is a commonly seen in young and middle-aged patients. The majority of spinal disc herniation cases occur in lumbar region (95% in L4-L5 or L5-S1). The second most common site is the cervical region (C5-C6, C6-C7). The thoracic region accounts for only 0.15% to 4.0% of cases. The economic impact of various disc related disorders, back pain, and/or radiculopathy is in terms of days lost to work and reduced productivity.