What Causes a Slipped Disc?

Daily Wear and Tear

A slipped disc is often the first sign that a disc is degenerating due to wear and tear. Your intervertebral discs cushion the impact on your spine when you move. That means each time you twist, bend, or walk, the discs absorb the pressure.

Over the years, your discs can begin to wear out, eventually leading to a slipped disc.

Injury

Many people suffer slipped discs after a back trauma that results in an injury. This could be due to a direct blow, twisting, or even lifting a heavy object. The trauma puts too much pressure on the disc, causing it to slip out of place. This is common in both workplace injuries and car accidents.

A Combination of the Two

Often, slipped discs are caused by a combination of wear and tear and an injury. When your disc begins to degenerate, it cannot handle the pressure from trauma. That means if you get in a car accident or hurt yourself at work, you’re much more likely to herniate a disc.

Risk Factors That Increase the Likelihood of Developing a Slipped Disc

While slipped discs are caused by aging, injuries, or a combination, there are risk factors that make people more prone to suffering from this condition.

If you engage in physically demanding work, you’re more likely to develop a slipped disc. Your back can only take so much stress before this occurs.

Excess weight also puts you at risk. The extra weight increases the amount of stress on your spine, making you susceptible to a slipped disc. If you are overweight and undergo microdiscectomy surgery to repair the disc, you’re also 12 times more likely to suffer another slipped disc in the same location.

Smoking also puts you in the high-risk category. Nicotine impedes blood flow to the discs. Discs need ample blood to heal when damaged. Also, a lack of blood can cause the discs to degenerate at a younger age. Put down the cigarettes, so you can lower your risk of herniating a disc.

Your DNA can also impact the likelihood of getting a slipped disc. If you have a family history of slipped discs, you’re much more likely to experience one yourself.

Get Help for a Slipped Disc

If you have a slipped disc, seek help. While some slipped discs heal on their own, others require medical intervention.

Also, if your slipped disc was due to a workplace injury or automobile accident, you will need a medical provider to document your injury.

Call (888) 590-4030 to find an experienced doctor who can help you get back to living your life!