Intervertebral Hernia

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes of Hernia Development

• Degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs

• Spinal injuries

• Heavy physical exertion

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Congenital abnormalities of the spinal column

Risk Factors

Smoking, excess weight, heredity, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic spinal diseases increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Symptoms of Intervertebral Hernia

Symptoms in the Cervical Spine

• Neck pain radiating to the arm

• Numbness in the fingers

• Headaches, dizziness

Symptoms in the Lumbosacral Spine

• Severe lower back pain

• Pain radiating to the buttock and leg

• Sensory disturbances and muscle weakness

Symptoms in the Thoracic Spine

• Localized back pain

• Feeling of chest tightness

• Limited mobility

Symptoms of Coccygeal Hernia

• Pulling pain in the pelvic area

• Difficulty sitting and walking

• Discomfort when bending

Classification and Stages of Development

Three stages are distinguished: protrusion (initial stage), extrusion (nucleus goes beyond the disc), and sequestration (fragment separation). By location, hernias are classified into cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral.

Diagnosis of Intervertebral Hernia

The main methods are MRI, CT, X-ray, and electromyography. For accurate diagnosis, a comprehensive approach involving a neurologist and neurosurgeon is used.

Treatment of Intervertebral Hernia

Conservative Treatment

Prescribed at early stages. Includes medications, physiotherapy, massage, and therapeutic exercises. The goal is to relieve inflammation, reduce pain, and prevent progression.

Surgical Treatment

Indicated in cases of severe pain and neurological complications. Methods include microdiscectomy, endoscopic discectomy, and laser removal of the protrusion. Surgery is performed using microsurgical or minimally invasive techniques.

Medication Therapy

Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, painkillers, and nerve block injections for acute pain relief.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy improves blood circulation and tissue nutrition. Techniques include electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, and laser methods.

Massage and Therapeutic Exercise

Strengthens back muscles, improves spinal flexibility, relieves spasms, and reduces pain.

Complications and Prognosis

Without treatment, hernia can lead to radiculopathy, chronic pain, limb numbness, and even paralysis. With timely intervention, the prognosis is favorable: most patients return to active life.

Prevention of Intervertebral Hernia

• Regular physical exercise to strengthen muscles

• Weight control

• Proper posture

• Quitting smoking

• Balanced nutrition

Treatment of Spinal Hernia in Russia

Clinics

• MEDSI
  A network of clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Provides diagnostics and treatment of spinal diseases ranging from drug therapy to minimally invasive surgery. MRI and CT diagnostics are available.

• EMC (European Medical Center)
  A private clinic in Moscow offering both surgical and conservative treatment methods. Microdiscectomy, endoscopic discectomy, and modern rehabilitation techniques are used.

• Olymp Clinic
  A Moscow-based clinic specializing in spinal surgery. Minimally invasive operations and rehabilitation programs are provided.

Cost

The cost of treatment varies depending on the method:

• Consultations and diagnostics — from $50

• Conservative therapy — from $180

• Minimally invasive procedures (laser, nucleoplasty) — $980–$1900

• Surgical operations — $1400–$3000 and above

• Rehabilitation — from $250

MARUS Assistance

MARUS supports patients with intervertebral hernias at all stages of treatment. Specialists select the appropriate clinic and optimal therapy method, clarify the cost of procedures and surgeries, and handle diagnostics and patient support. In addition, MARUS ensures continuous coordination between doctors and helps patients undergo rehabilitation and recovery after treatment.