Name of the Condition

• Other Intervertebral Disc Displacement, Lumbar Region
• Also known as lumbar disc displacement or slipped disc in the lower back.

Summary

• This condition involves the displacement or dislocation of discs in the lumbar spine, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and potential nerve irritation.

Causes

• Age-related degeneration, physical injury, or trauma.
• Repetitive stress on the spine from certain activities or poor posture.

Risk Factors

• Aging, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
• Occupations that involve heavy lifting or prolonged sitting.

Symptoms

• Lower back pain, radiating leg pain (sciatica).
• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet.
• Muscle weakness in the lower extremities.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess pain and muscle strength.
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to visualize disc displacement.

Treatment Options

• Medications like pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen the back.
• Surgery in severe cases to remove or repair the displaced disc.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many patients improve with conservative treatments, but some may require surgery.
• Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor recovery and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• Chronic pain and potential nerve damage if untreated.
• Possible development of chronic back conditions.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active to strengthen the back.
• Practice good posture and proper body mechanics during activities.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or worsening back pain.
• Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, indicating a medical emergency.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct lumbar region identification in records.
• Check whether M51.26 is appropriate by confirming no specific spinal level is specified.
• Avoid confusion with similar codes for disc displacement in other regions of the spine.