May 9, 2011
Every week we keep an eye on illnesses and medical trends passing through the community. In this week's What's Going Around we're checking in with Dr. Jacob Young of Martha Jefferson Surgical Associates in Charlottesville.
He says the biggest complaint from patients right now is "lumbar disc herniations" also known as slipped discs. As temperatures warm up outside more people will be doing yard work and gardening, increasing the chance for a slipped disc.
Some symptoms include back spasms, severe pain down one leg, numbness down one leg, and weakness or a limp when walking. This condition typically lasts less than four weeks.
Treatments include bed rest, anti-inflammatory medications, oral steroids, physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation, and sometimes surgery.
Dr. Young says there are ways you can prevent a slipped disc. He suggests practicing good lifting habits, like lifting with knees and not the back. Also, maintaining an ideal body weight, and good core strength by doing crunches.
Not only will a healthy body weight and exercise help prevent a slipped disc, Dr. Young says it can improve your overall health.
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