Broken Disc, Can it get worse?

[xmelax35]

I have a broken & herniated lumbar disc and the fragment is laying in a different spot on a nerve (they believe a nerve). Anyway, I can barely be on here right now even though I am in bed (feeling bad migraines and my back). I wondered if it is possible for the herniated disc to get worse or yet break more? Yesterday it felt as though something broke back there and sooooo much excruciating pain! I am in worse pain back there (and I didn't think I could be) if I move about. I am only somewhat okay laying in a certain position. I can't roll over and I can sit up without this horrendous pain that makes me scream and cry. I am trying my best not to cry because it will make my head worse. What exactly causes a disc to break? I never had that hard of a hit that would make it break (at least the hit was no in that area).

[xmelax35]

Thank you, I am trying my best to rest.  I do feel much worse. It is making me nauseated. I didn't know what caused this to start with. I had lower back trouble for awhile, but it all of a sudden became worse that one day and they didn't do anything in the beginning, but a doctor told me at the ER it could be a disc by my description (right he ended up being). I went to a doctor and he wasn't sure, but with my persistence, he sent me for a regular xray. They didn't see anything and I was told it shows the bones. I was in excruciating pain and i just pressed and pressed the issue and was not about to give up. I told them that this kind of pain cannot be nothing. There has to be something causing it as it was not all just in my head. So I was sent for an MRI where they found this issue. I am so glad I did not give up. (I guess now it shows me to not give up on my other issues as well, to keep on pushing for my health).

I talked to my doctor again just a few days ago and he did say ti could have shifted or become worse. He increased my pain meds, until I get surgery. I have to have surgery clearance first and it got pushed back by some issues, but I will have my clearance this week, hopefully.  

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Yes, disc herniations may worsen over time and may cause increased compression over the neural structures. Aside direct trauma, disc herniations could result from indirect trauma, constant wear and sear/ strain around the region, structural causes etc. I would suggest considering a review with your treating doctor for a detailed evaluation and suggestion of an appropriate management plan depending on the severity of the condition. Meanwhile I would advise rest. Tylenol/ OTC NSAIDS may be helpful for pain relief.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!