An L4-L5 herniated disc – commonly known as Lumbar Disc Disease – can be a real pain for patients…and we see these herniated discs often. In fact, most disc herniations occur between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae and between the fifth lumbar vertebra (source: Johns Hopkins Medicine).
There are a few potential causes of L4-L5 herniated discs, as well as a variety of symptoms, all of which should be addressed promptly by your spine specialist. Here at FSA, our team of board-certified spine specialists offer a variety of treatment plans to help patients with L4-L5 herniated discs “take back” their lives.
Here are a few common questions about L4-L5 herniated discs, from causes and symptoms to treatment options:
What Is an L4–L5 Herniated Disc?
A herniated (or “slipped”) disc occurs when the spongy layer of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the bones of the spine is displaced (source: (NYU Langone Health). This is one of the most common causes of back and neck pain.
An L4-L5 herniated disc is a common form of sciatica that occurs in the lumbar spine, which consists of the 5 vertebrae located in the lower back. As a disc continues to break down, the inner nucleus pulposus may rupture out from the annulus. This is a herniated disc (also known as a ruptured disc).
What Causes L4–L5 Disc Herniation?
An L4-L5 disc herniation (lumbar disc disease) is caused by a change in the structure of the normal disc. Typically, this disc herniation is caused by aging and the normal breakdown or wear-and-tear that occurs within the disc. Of course, a severe injury can also cause (or worsen) a herniated disc (source: Johns Hopkins Medicine).
What are the Common Symptoms of an L4–L5 Herniated Disc?
Symptoms of an L4-5 herniated disc depends on what nerve root the herniated disc is pushing on. Some of the earliest and most common symptoms of an L4-L5 herniated disc are intermittent or continuous lower back pain and sciatica (pain that starts near the back or buttock and travels down the leg to the calf or into the foot).
Other common symptoms include spasms, muscle weakness in the legs, numbness or tingling in the legs or foot, decreased reflexes, and potentially even changes in bladder or bowel function (source: Johns Hopkins Medicine).
How Is an L4–L5 Herniated Disc Diagnosed?
To diagnose an L4—L5 herniated disc, a specialist will go through the patient’s medical history, conduct a physical exam to evaluate the strength of the lower back and legs, and if necessary, order advanced diagnostic testing to determine a clear diagnosis. The clinical (physical) exam may include a skin exam, lumbar spine exam, straight leg raise test, crossed straight leg test and reflex checks. The straight leg test, also known as the Laseque sign, is often particularly useful in diagnosing a lumbar disc herniation in the L4-L5 spinal segment.
Typically, MRIs are the standard imaging test for diagnosing a herniated disc, although nerve function testing may also be used to determine the severity of nerve damage and its progression (source: Spine-Health).
What are the Treatment Options for an L4–L5 Herniated Disc?
The good news? Most patients do not need surgery to relieve the symptoms of a herniated disc! Rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory may be all that’s required for healing. If symptoms persist, a spine specialist may prescribe medications such as prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxants and/or corticosteroids. Physical therapy, acupuncture and corticosteroid injections are additional non-surgical treatment options.
If you are experiencing pain, have concerns about a herniated disc, or simply want to improve your spine health, our team of board-certified spine specialists is here to help. Schedule your consultation today at (561) 375-2388.
To learn more about Florida Spine Associates, follow FSA on Facebook and Instagram and read our blog.