Herniated Disc & Disc Herniation

Disc Herniation

Discs are small circular cushions between the bones in the spine (vertebrae). A herniated disc happens when discs in the spine bulge from their proper place. This is most common the in the lower spine/lower back.

Herniated Disc

Herniated Disc Risk Factors

Herniated discs can occur when discs lose water content, become flatter, and provide less cushioning. It may also occur when the disc is physically damaged by trauma.

These factors increase your chance of developing a herniated disc:

  • Age – our chances increase as we age past 30.
  • Trauma – common scenarios involve falls, accidents, or sudden twisting of the trunk.
  • Strain – caused by either repeated or sudden strain, such as lifting heavy objects without proper technique.
  • Wear & Tear – from physically demanding jobs, or from being overweight.

Symptoms of Herniated Discs

  • Pain
    • May be sharp, dull, piercing, aching, burning, or throbbing, depending on the disc location and size of herniation.
    • May spread over the back, buttocks, down the back of one thigh, and into the calf.
    • May be in one of both legs.
  • Numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs, feet, or arms.
  • Sudden aching in the neck, making movement extremely painful.
  • In severe cases, inability to find comfort even lying down.

Treating a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs often occur from muscular tightness or weakness, which causes your posture to get our of alignment. Our therapists will educate you on pain-relieving techniques, such as ice and decreasing or modifying painful activities.

Your therapist will educate and assist you on proper stretching and strengthening exercises for the back. They may also need to perform hands-on techniques to further increase joint flexibility and alleviate any painful symptoms.

The final phase of rehab will involve strengthening during functional activities and education to prevent this injury from occurring again. In the case that surgery is required, your therapist will work with you to regain your strength and range of motion through education, exercise, manual therapy.

Did you know you have Direct Access* to Physical Therapy? No referral, no problem!

*Some restrictions apply.

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