Diagnosis of a slipped disc in the lumbar spine | Diagnosis of a slipped disc

Diagnosis of a slipped disc in the lumbar spine

Persons who suspect they have a slipped disc in the lumbar spine (lumbar spine) should consult a specialist as soon as possible. Complications can only be avoided by a detailed diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment measures. Especially in the case of a deep disc herniation in the lumbar spine, damage to the nerve roots can lead to the development of urinary and/or fecal incontinence.

Even if the presence of a slipped disc in the lumbar spine is suspected, the actual diagnosis begins with a detailed anamnesis. Persons suffering from a slipped disc in the lumbar spine typically describe sensory disturbances (numbness and/or tingling) in the area of the buttocks and the upper and lower legs. The exact extent of these sensitivity disorders can give a first indication of which spinal segment the herniated disc is located in.

In addition, muscle strength in the leg region can be significantly limited in the case of an advanced disc herniation of the lumbar spine. The ability to walk on the heels and tiptoes is also an important criterion in the diagnosis of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine. Affected persons may not be able to do this without problems due to the limited muscle strength. If the suspicion of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine is confirmed, the diagnosis should be confirmed by imaging procedures (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging).

Diagnosis of a slipped disc in the cervical spine

The diagnosis of a slipped disc of the cervical spine (cervical spine) comprises several steps. Even during the extensive doctor-patient consultation (anamnesis), the symptoms described by the affected person can substantiate an initial suspected diagnosis. Persons with a slipped disc in the cervical spine often suffer from sensory disturbances in the arms.

In the case of an advanced herniated disc of the cervical spine, which is accompanied by a significant compression of the nerve root, muscle strength may also be limited. In order to be able to confirm the diagnosis “herniated disc of the cervical spine“, an orienting physical examination must be carried out after the doctor-patient consultation. The specialist checks the sensitivity by stroking both arms in a side comparison.

If there is a side difference in sensory perception, a herniated disc can be assumed. In addition, the diagnosis includes the examination of the vertebral segment-specific reflexes and muscle strength. If the suspected diagnosis is confirmed during the physical examination, imaging procedures should be initiated.

Which doctor can diagnose a slipped disc?

A slipped disc is usually a case for an orthopaedic surgeon. He is specialized in all diseases of the musculoskeletal system and considers the herniated disc mainly from the clinical side. During the physical examination, he can perform special tests that provide information about the herniated disc.

The orthopaedist can therefore diagnose the suspicion of a herniated disc. However, final proof is usually provided by an MRI, which shows the herniated disc in an image.