Pressure on the nerve root (impingement)
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Pressure on the nerve root (impingement)
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Often a herniated disc by itself does not cause pain. Pain occurs when the membrane on the outside of the spinal cord or spinal nerves is irritated. Loss of function, such as weakness or altered sensation, can be caused by pressure from the herniated disc on the nerve roots or spinal cord. Pain or numbness may occur in the area of the body to which the nerve travels.
Credits
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics |
| Last Updated | July 21, 2008 |
| Last updated: | July 21, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Reviewed By: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics |
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