
5 Risk Factors That Can Lead to a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs — also known as slipped discs, bulging discs, or ruptured discs — happen when the soft inner portion of your intervertebral disc protrudes through the tough outer shell.
Regardless of what you call it, a herniated disc can cause significant pain and discomfort, and unfortunately, about 2% of people rupture a disc every year.
In the spirit of reducing your risk of developing one, you first have to know your risk factors.
Take a moment to learn about the five risk factors that can lead to a herniated disc and how Dr. John Regan and the team at Spine Group Beverly Hills in Santa Monica, California, can help.
1. Your age
Most people who experience herniated discs are between the ages of 30 and 50. As you age, the discs in your spine naturally lose some of their water content.
A loss of water content in mildly degenerative discs leads to a 2.3% decrease in disc height. If you have moderately degenerative discs, this number jumps up to a 9.3% decrease in height.
What does this mean? As you lose water content, your disc height decreases, the discs become less flexible, and they are more prone to rupturing.
2. Carrying extra weight in your midsection
Carrying extra body weight — especially in your abdominal area — puts additional stress on your spine, particularly in the lower back. This added pressure can contribute to the wear and tear on your spinal discs and increases the likelihood of a herniated disc.
3. Leading a sedentary lifestyle
A lack of regular physical activity weakens the muscles that support your spine. Conversely, sudden or excessive physical activity without proper conditioning can also increase your risk.
The key is to strike a balance between not moving at all and exercising too much, too fast.
Ideally, find a balanced exercise routine that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and aerobic activities to keep your spine healthy.
Don’t skip the mat work! A strong core supports your back, so be sure to include plenty of core exercises in your routine.
4. Using improper lifting technique
Whether you work in a warehouse or you’re lifting heavy groceries out of your car, proper lifting technique is non-negotiable.
Using incorrect lifting techniques, such as bending from your waist instead of your knees, can put significant strain on your spine. Lifting heavy objects improperly can cause your discs to herniate. It also increases your risk of muscle strains.
Always use proper lifting techniques: bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs. When possible, use the buddy system or tools (e.g., a two-wheeled cart) to make the lifting easier.
5. Your genetics
Your genetic makeup can play a role in your risk of developing a herniated disc. If your parents or siblings have experienced herniated discs, you may be more susceptible to the condition.
Know your risk factors
While you can't change your genetics or your age, being aware of your family history can help you take proactive steps to protect your spine and focus on the risk factors that you can control.
Depending on your personal risk factors, you may need to prioritize proper lifting techniques, add more exercise to your daily routine, or consider a weight loss program.
Get help for herniated discs
Even with the best strategies in place to prevent herniated discs, you may still develop one. If you suspect you have a ruptured disc, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Spine Group Beverly Hills team.
Dr. Regan can examine your spine, review your symptoms, and analyze imaging studies such as X-rays to confirm (or rule out) a herniation. If you’ve ruptured a disc, you may benefit from:
- Over-the-counter or prescription medication
- Cortisone injections to help with pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy
- Minimally invasive disc replacement surgery
Questions? Give us a ring at 424-238-3281 or schedule your next appointment through our online booking tool.
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