Indonesia
HNP ( Herniated Nucleus Pulposus )
A hernia of the nucleus pulposus (HNP) is a condition when the vertebral cushions shift and press on the spinal nerves, which is more commonly known as a 'pinched nerve'.
The complaints experienced depend on the area experiencing HNP; it can be from the neck to the waist, where 95% occur in the area of the waist down. Common complaints include pain, tingling, or muscle weakness.
One of the causes of HNP is an impact on the spine. In old age, the flexibility of the spine decreases, making it more vulnerable to injury. Other factors that play a role include excess body weight, wrong body movement positions, or family history.
Apart from physical examinations, supporting examinations that can be carried out to diagnose HNP can be done with MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to see the condition of the spine.
1. Non-operative management of HNP patients can include:
Activity modification: the goal is to resume normal daily activities at a tolerable level of pain or discomfort without increasing strain.
2. Medicines
3. Physical therapy or exercise: exercise during the first month of symptoms may be beneficial and, at the same time, minimize the weakness that can occur due to inactivity. Low-stress exercises such as swimming, walking, and cycling are also recommended.
Operative treatment If there is no improvement, one alternative that can be done is PLDD (percutaneous laser disc decompression).
PLDD is a minimally invasive procedure using a bone pad (disc) reduction method using a laser beam aimed at the bone pad that is protruding. The advantages of this procedure include local anesthesia, no surgery, and fast treatment.