L4-L5 Disc Herniation Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms of an L4-L5 disc herniation is localized pain in the lower back. This pain is caused by inflammation and can worsen with physical activity. 

Everyday movements, like bending forward, lifting heavy objects, or sitting for long periods, can increase discomfort.

The pain from an L4-L5 herniation can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. Some individuals may also experience stiffness in the lower back, limiting their flexibility and range of motion. 

If left untreated, pain will worsen and persist.

L4-L5 disc herniation is a common cause of sciatica, a condition characterized by nerve pain that radiates down the leg. 

This occurs when the herniated disc irritates the L5 nerve root. Patients often describe the pain as sharp, burning, or electric-like, starting from the lower back and extending through the buttock and leg.

Individuals with sciatica may also experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected leg. 

Muscle spasms in the lower back are another frequent symptom of L4-L5 disc herniation. These involuntary contractions occur as the body's response to stabilize the spine and protect the injured area. 

Back spasms are often triggered by prolonged sitting or poor posture. The intensity of the spasms can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to severe cramping.

An L4-L5 herniated disc can be a serious condition depending on the degree of disc damage and inflammation. Pain can range from mild discomfort to chronic pain that limits mobility and daily functioning.

Seeking expert care at a world-class institution like Deuk Spine Institute can help prevent progression of the disc disease, while also restoring spinal health.

Our research indicates that L4-L5 disc herniation develops when the disc’s outer annulus fibrosus tears, allowing the inner nucleus pulposus to protrude. The resulting damage triggers pain as its nerve endings become irritated by inflammatory proteins and mechanical stress.

Sudden trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury, can cause the annulus fibrosus to tear. For example, an athlete landing incorrectly after a jump might experience a sharp onset of lower back pain. Over time, repeated stress on the spine can enlarge the tear, increasing pain and the stage of disc degeneration.

Individuals who engage in physically demanding work are at an increased risk for L4-L5 disc herniation. Occupations that involve repetitive lifting, bending, twisting, pulling, or pushing can accelerate strains and sprain, leading to disc degeneration. 

Manual laborers, for instance, may experience higher incidences of herniation.

General lifestyle factors like prolonged sitting and poor posture also contribute to a higher risk. Sedentary behavior can increase pressure on lumbar discs. Similarly, obesity places added stress on the lower back.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an invaluable diagnostic tool. MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues, allowing for precise identification of herniated discs in the lumbar spine and elsewhere.

At Deuk Spine Institute, patients can benefit from a free MRI review, where we analyze the scans and conduct a comprehensive Spine Exam via videoconferencing. This enables prospective patients to find the root of their pain from the comfort of their homes.

Based on our observations, doctors may start with non-surgical methods. These may include physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications.

Unfortunately, they do not address the root cause of the herniation. Many patients experience recurring symptoms, leading to a diminished quality of life.

Prolonged use of medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can lead to gastrointestinal issues, whereas physical therapy might exacerbate pain or injury.

When conservative measures fail, the standard (yet often harmful) approach is to treat herniation with surgery. Surgeries include discectomy, spinal fusion, or artificial disc replacement. These can be invasive, requiring extensive recovery periods. 

Spinal fusions limit the spine's natural mobility and have been associated with causing disc degeneration. Our findings show that they can also be costly, with prices ranging from $50,000 to $500,000.

Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a comparatively minor procedure designed to address herniated discs without causing additional trauma. This technique uses laser energy to remove the herniated disc material and scar tissues, allowing the disc to heal on its own in 9-12 months. 

In over 1,300 patients treated with Deuk Laser Disc Repair, there has been a 95% success rate with no reported complications. In fact, patients are sent home the same day as the procedure.

We don’t advise living with disc herniation. If pain persists past 6 weeks, it is chronic and must be treated.

To prevent an L4-L5 disc herniation, maintain a healthy weight. This way, you lessen the load on the lumbar discs, decreasing the likelihood of herniation.

Using chairs that support the natural curve of the lower back and positioning workstations at appropriate heights can contribute to spinal well-being.

It's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms indicative of severe nerve involvement. Signs such as persistent pain, numbness, or weakness warrant evaluation. If you lose control of your bladder, seek immediate medical attention.

It is essential to intervene timeously to address the underlying cause of pain and stop the progression of disc disease in its tracks.