What are my Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc?
The bones that form the spine in the back are cushioned with small pillow-like round discs. Between each vertebra in the spinal column is one of these discs. Each disc is surrounded by a tough outer layer, the annulus that surrounds the nucleus and acts as a shock absorber for the spinal bones. A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus is pushed out of the annulus into the spinal canal through a tear or the rupture in the annulus. This displacement causes the disc to press on the spinal nerves, which causes pain that may be severe. Contact All-Star Physical Therapy in Woodbury and make an appointment with us to have your herniated disc treated.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
A herniated disc can occur in any part of the spine and can be very painful. The lower back is most commonly affected. Symptoms of a herniated disc includes pain and discomfort in these areas:
- numbness on one side of the body
- your arms or legs
- pain that worsens at night or with certain movements
- pain that worsens after standing or sitting
- pain when walking short distances
- unexplained muscle weakness
- tingling, aching, or burning sensations in the affected area
Causes of Herniated Disc
Typically a herniated disc can occur with age, but it can also be caused by certain motions. A herniated disc can occur if you are twisting or turning to lift a very heavy or large object. Individuals that are overweight are also at a higher risk of experiencing a herniated disc due to the fact that their discs must support the additional weight. Additionally, if you have weakened muscles or live a sedentary lifestyle, you are more susceptible to a herniated disc. This injury is more common in men than in women.
Treatment
The initial treatment for a herniated disc is usually non-surgical. The symptoms are different for everyone, which means that so is the treatment. It is completely dependent on the level of discomfort. Most people that experience a herniated disc can alleviate the pain with physical therapy that includes exercises that stretch and strengthen your back and surrounding muscles. Taking over-the-counter medications and refraining from physical activity and heavy lifting can also help reduce pain
If physical therapy and medication don’t reduce pain over a period of time, doctors may suggest surgery. There are two main surgeries that may be recommended, which are lumbar spine surgery and cervical spine surgery.
How Physical Therapy in Woodbury Can Help
All-Star Physical Therapy is equipped to give you a better quality of life by alleviating your pain. Our expert physical therapist will perform an initial evaluation to come up with a treatment plan that works for you. Our treatment plans can include things like hands-on therapy, stretching, exercise, heat, ice, ultrasound, and electric stimulation. Our team works hard to make sure the pain you experience is temporary so that you can feel like your old self again. Contact us today to learn more and make your first appointment!