HNP symptoms are the negative side effects that can result from a herniated nucleus pulposus. HNP, more commonly known as a herniated disc, is a common result of the natural aging process. These soft, spongy bodies lose elasticity over the years and can collapse, bulge, or otherwise deform. Injuries and physically strenuous jobs also can take their toll on intervertebral discs. Sometimes, disc deformation will progress to the point that the gel-like inner material of the disc – the nucleus pulposus – pushes through the thicker, outer disc wall and into the spinal canal. This is a herniated nucleus pulposus.
What Actually Causes the Symptoms of HNP?
HNP symptoms can vary, but commonly include pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling. However, it is not the herniated disc itself that causes these symptoms. In fact, a herniated disc by itself is typically asymptomatic and won’t cause you any problems. It’s when the nucleus pulposus that has leaked through the disc wall impinges upon a nearby spinal nerve that problems arise. This nerve compression – not the herniated disc itself – is the true cause of HNP symptoms.
Treatment Options
Most individuals are able to find relief from their HNP symptoms with a treatment regimen consisting of one or more of a variety of conservative, nonsurgical methods. These can include physical therapy, exercise, hot/cold therapy, pain medications, massage, chiropractic treatments, and others. Of course, you should always check with your doctor before beginning any sort of treatment program, but the good news is that these conservative treatments have proven very effective in managing the pain and other symptoms associated with HNP.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Some people struggle to find relief from their HNP symptoms through these conservative treatments, however, and instead opt for elective surgery as a last resort. If you’ve been trying conservative treatments for weeks or months with little success, contact Laser Spine Institute today to learn more about our revolutionary endoscopic procedures. These minimally invasive alternatives to open back surgery are safe, effective, and can help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain.
