What is a broad-based annular tear?

What is a broad-based annular tear?

Hear this out loudPauseAn annular tear occurs when the outer layer of a spinal disc, also known as the annulus fibrosus, suffers damage and tears. This can cause the gelatinous contents inside the disc, aka the nucleus pulposus, to rupture or herniate.

What does a broad-based disc bulge mean?

Hear this out loudPauseBy strict definition, a broad-based herniation involves between 25 and 50% of the disc circumference. A focal herniation involves less than 25% of the disc circumference. Herniated discs may take the form of protrusion or extrusion based on the shape of the displaced or herniated material.

What is the annulus in the spine?

Hear this out loudPauseThe annulus fibrosus is the tough circular exterior of the intervertebral disc that surrounds the soft inner core, the nucleus pulposus. This outer portion is composed of a ring of ligament fibers that encases the inner core of the disc and securely connects the spinal vertebrae above and below the disc.

Does annular tear require surgery?

Hear this out loudPauseAn annular tear is a potentially serious condition that may require surgery to prevent severe pain. Keep in mind that the outer annulus fibrosus ring is chock-full of nerves, which means a tear is going to result in substantial pain if these nerves are damaged.

Can annular tears get worse?

Hear this out loudPauseWithout proper care and treatment, an annular tear will continue to worsen. When that happens, the following complications can occur. Herniated disc. Continued stress and pressure from daily activities, sports, or heavy lifting can eventually cause a torn disc to herniate.

What does annular tear pain feel like?

Hear this out loudPauseSymptoms associated with an annular tear typically include pain and muscle spasm in the neck, mid or low back although more common in the lower back. In some cases, these symptoms may radiate causing pain or spasm in patients arms or legs but typically neck or low back pain is the predominating symptom.

What can happen if a disc prolapses?

Hear this out loudPauseA slipped disc (also called a prolapsed or herniated disc) can cause: lower back pain. numbness or tingling in your shoulders, back, arms, hands, legs or feet. neck pain.

Can a annular tear get worse?

Hear this out loudPauseWhen annular tears are minor or just in the beginning stages, they may not cause any discomfort. However, if the tear gets progressively worse, the gel-like fluid in the disc can start to leak out. This may not seem like it can do a lot of damage, but when the fluid hits the spinal nerves, it can cause a lot of pain.

How do you sleep with an annular tear?

Hear this out loudPauseTake a hot shower or use a heating pad to relax muscles that have become tense throughout the day. Sleep on a supportive mattress — a medium firmness is often recommended — and try to stay in a position that minimizes stress on the spine.

What can make an annular tear worse?

Hear this out loudPauseThe most common treatment the medical professional recommends is PT or physical therapy. Most patients that have an annular tear will complain that PT makes them worse.

Can you fix a bulging disc without surgery?

Hear this out loudPauseThe good news is that the vast majority of herniated discs can be treated without surgery using manual therapy and exercise or with IDD Therapy disc treatment. It is only a small percentage of cases which go on to have surgery.

Are bulging disc permanent?

Hear this out loudPauseDisc bulges are not permanent. The disc is a fluid filled structure and therefore has the capacity to heal, resolve and be re-absorbed.

Can you feel a herniated disc with your fingers?

Hear this out loudPauseSensations of tingling and numbness Patients with herniated discs located in the neck can feel numbness and tingling in the hands, fingers, and arm.

Can an annular tear cause leg pain?

Hear this out loudPauseAnnular Tears. Painful Spine Problem Can Be Effectively Treated Annular tears can cause fluid to leak out of vertebral discs of the spine, irritating nearby nerves, causing significant pain, numbness, and tingling in the back, neck or legs.

How do you tell if a disc is bulging or herniated?

Here are 3 unique signs of a herniated or protruding disc to help you identify the underlying cause of your lower back problem:

1. Pain while sitting. An activity that exerts tremendous pressure on your lower spinal discs is sitting.
2. Radiating pain into your leg (sciatica)
3. Pain aggravated by specific activities.