HNP

Medical abbreviation · Musculoskeletal & Rheumatology

HNP
Stands forHerniated nucleus pulposus
CategoriesMedical

HNP stands for Herniated nucleus pulposus, a musculoskeletal & rheumatology abbreviation.

Displacement of the soft inner core of an intervertebral disc through its outer ring, which can press on nerve roots and cause radiating arm or leg pain (radiculopathy). Lumbar herniations at L4–L5 and L5–S1 are the most common and cause sciatica.

Example: Left L5–S1 HNP compressing S1 root; 6 weeks of conservative care before surgical referral.

Usage notes

Also described as a herniated, slipped or ruptured disc. Most symptomatic herniations improve within weeks to a few months without surgery, and fragments can shrink on their own. Bowel or bladder dysfunction, saddle numbness or progressive weakness signal cauda equina syndrome, a surgical emergency. Microdiscectomy speeds recovery for persistent sciatica.

More musculoskeletal & rheumatology abbreviations

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  • FRAX – Fracture Risk Assessment Tool
  • GCA – Giant cell arteritis
  • GH – Glenohumeral (joint)
  • GTPS – Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
  • HLA-B27 – Human leukocyte antigen B27
  • HO – Heterotopic ossification
  • IMN – Intramedullary nail
  • ITBS – Iliotibial band syndrome
  • JIA – Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • LBP – Low back pain
  • LCPD – Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease

See all 71 musculoskeletal & rheumatology abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.