Experiencing Back Pain A Herniated Disc Could Be The Culprit

1. EXPERIENCING BACK PAIN? A HERNIATED DISC COULD BE THE CULPRIT You may have been in this position before. You might be experiencing strange neck pains, back pains, or other symptoms in your extremities. These sensations can indicate a variety of potential problems – including one or more herniated discs in your back. Here are some helpful tidbits of information from our physical therapist about herniated discs, their common symptoms, and how physical therapy can help you get rid of your discomfort. What is a herniated disc? Your spinal discs are flat discs of tissue that lie between the vertebrae. A disc consists of a fluid-filled center called the “nucleus pulposus”, encased in an outer structure called the “annulus fibrosus”. This arrangement makes the disc both tough enough and spongy enough to absorb shocks. Unfortunately, that toughness has its limits. Sometimes a disc will lose hydration over time, causing the nucleus pulposus to get smaller. The disc loses its height, which stresses the spinal joints and may cause the disc to bulge outward. Eventually, these changes can cause part of the annulus fibrosus to balloon and tear open; causing a herniated disc. Herniated discs can also occur suddenly due to an auto accident, workplace accident, or sports injury that traumatizes the spine. They are also known as slipped or ruptured discs, and they do require medical attention.

2. Symptoms of a herniated disc An inability to walk more than a few steps without pain Pain, tingling, or loss of sensation in a limb (the result of a herniated disc pressing against nerve roots) Back pain that seems to grow worse when you sneeze, cough, stand up, or sit down Neck pain (if it’s a cervical disc) The most accurate way to confirm a herniated disc is through medical imaging. X-rays can reveal the abnormal shape of a herniated disc and whether the herniation is pinching a nerve. How are herniated discs treated? To treat, our physical therapist will perform diagnostic tests to determine the root of your pain and verify that your pain is indeed being caused by a herniated disc initially. Once the cause of your pain is clear, a customized treatment plan will be created for you. This includes a series of targeted stretches and exercises aimed at relieving your pain, improving your function, and promoting your body's natural healing process. Additional treatments may be added as your physical therapist deems fit. These include: Manual therapy Class IV laser therapy Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) Education on posture and lifting mechanics Ice and heat therapies Traction Physical therapy is one of the safest, quickest, and most effective ways to treat herniated discs. It is a holistic and non-invasive approach that, in many cases, has been able to eliminate the need for harmful drugs or surgical intervention. Ready to get your life back? Are you ready to learn more about herniated discs and get the answers to your neck or back pain condition? Contact Allcare Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation! Source: https://allcare-physicaltherapy.com/experiencing-back-pain-a-herniated-disc-could- be-the-culprit/