Annular tear of the vertebrae The term “L5/S1 annular tear” might sound like medical jargon, but it actually refers to a specific cause of lower back pain. An annular tear is a tear in the annulus fibrosus, a tough ring that surrounds each intervertebral disc to give the disc its shape and keeps the spinal vertebrae evenly separated. Over time, the continual rigours of daily activity can weaken the discs, sometimes to the point of rupture. An annular tear can be asymptomatic. In most cases, this condition will result in inflammation that is resolved without treatment. However, if an annular tear progresses, it could allow the inner disc material to leak through the tear and into the vertebral canal. This gel-like substance (namely the Nucleus Polposus) could then come into contact with and compress a nerve root or the spinal cord itself, causing a number of painful symptoms. The first component of the term “L5/S1 annular tear” is “L5/S1.” These letters and numbers indicate the location of the deteriorated intervertebral disc. The L5 refers to the fifth lumbar vertebra and the S1 indicates the first sacral vertebra. Thus, the deteriorated disc is located between these two vertebrae in the lower back. ( Letters and numbers will obviously vary depending on which disc is involved) Treating an annular tear An L5/S1 annular tear is a very common condition, and the symptoms can often be treated successfully through a regimen of conservative, non-surgical techniques. In fact, an annular tear can sometimes heal completely after a few weeks of non-invasive treatment. Some examples of effective symptom remedies include: Low-impact exercises and stretching under supervision with a Biokineticist so as not to perform any contraindicated movements and strengthen appropriate muscles Physiotherapy for massage treatment of tightened muscles which are in spasm trying to protect the back Pain medication, anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants (prescribed by the Doctor) Hot or cold therapy Acupuncture Chiropractics
Posted on: Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:44:27 +0000
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