Disc Calcification and Nerve Irritation with Inflammation

Inflammatory Response of Disc Calcification

 

disc calcification

What is Disc Calcification?

The intervertebral disc is a jelly-like structure located between the vertebrae, serving as a cushion to absorb shock.
Calcification refers to the deposition of calcium in the disc tissue, making it hard and stiff.

 

Why Exercise Becomes Difficult

As we age, muscle mass naturally declines, making protein intake and exercise essential.
However, individuals with disc calcification often find exercise difficult.
Increased movement during exercise may cause the calcified areas to irritate surrounding tissues and nerves, triggering micro-inflammation.

 

Spreading Inflammation or Nerve Conduction Issues

As inflammation worsens, symptoms may extend from one leg to both.
It often starts with mild tingling in the opposite leg but can gradually worsen, affecting both sides.

 

Mistaking It for a Herniated Disc Recurrence

Inflammation can cause pain, numbness, sensory abnormalities, and even radiating pain — symptoms that closely resemble a herniated disc recurrence.
Many people undergo MRI scans expecting a recurrence, only to find no noticeable abnormalities.
In such cases, the inflammation is often caused by disc calcification rather than a new disc injury.
Those with disc calcification should always be aware that symptoms like pain, numbness, or radiating pain may stem from inflammation, not disc recurrence.

 

Treatment Comes Before Exercise

Continuing to exercise while inflammation is present can worsen the condition.
If inflammation occurs, stop exercising and begin treatment immediately.
Delaying or ignoring treatment may cause the calcified area to grow larger and result in more severe symptoms.

 

Caution Even After Treatment

Even if inflammation is fully treated, the calcium deposits remain.
This can make the area more sensitive than before.
As a result, the risk of recurrence increases, so lifestyle management is essential.

 

Common Symptoms of Disc Calcification

• Lower back pain or radiating pain extending from the hips to the legs

• Numbness, decreased sensation, or unusual sensations in the feet or toes

• Symptoms worsen when sitting or standing for long periods

• A feeling of leg weakness when walking

   

   

Activities and Exercises to Avoid with Disc Calcification

 

1. Bending or Twisting the Lower Back

   • Picking items off the floor, twisting motions

   • → Can increase spinal pressure and irritate nerves near calcified areas

      

2. Lifting Heavy Objects

   • Moving boxes, carrying groceries, lifting children

   • → Sudden pressure spikes in the disc may trigger inflammation

      

3. High-Intensity Lower Body Workouts

   • Squats, lunges, deadlifts

   • → Put strong pressure on the pelvis and lower back, increasing nerve friction

      

4. Cardio Exercises with Impact or Jumping

   • Jump rope, running, aerobics, hiking

   • → Increase disc shock and worsen pain or inflammation

      

5.  Prolonged Sitting or Standing

   • Long computer use, long-distance driving, standing-based jobs

   • → Sustained disc pressure → inflammation → increased numbness and pain

      

6.  Sudden Movements or Direction Changes

   • Standing up quickly, turning abruptly

   • → Can cause the calcified area to shift and irritate nerves

      

7. Excessive Backward Bending Stretches

   • Cobra pose (yoga), bridge pose

   • → Intensifies pressure on the back of the disc and can cause pain

      

Conclusion

Disc calcification is extremely difficult to treat.
Always prioritize inflammation management before attempting exercise, and maintain healthy daily habits to prevent symptom recurrence.