Get Physical Therapy For A Herniated Disc
If you need Physical Therapy for a Herniated Disc, allow us to help you!
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or disc herniation, occurs when the soft, jelly-like center (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) of the disc. This condition commonly affects the spinal discs in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). The effects of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation.
When a disc herniates, it can exert pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in various symptoms. Common effects of a herniated disc include:
Pain: Herniated discs often cause localized pain in the affected area of the spine. The pain can be sharp, shooting, or aching, and it may radiate along the path of the affected nerve, leading to discomfort in the arms or legs.
Numbness and tingling:
The compression of nerves by a herniated disc can lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling. These sensations can be felt in the extremities, such as the hands, fingers, legs, or feet.
Muscle weakness:
Herniated discs can result in muscle weakness in the areas innervated by the affected nerves. This weakness may manifest as difficulty in lifting objects, reduced grip strength, or stumbling while walking.
Limited range of motion:
The pain and discomfort caused by a herniated disc can restrict movement and lead to a reduced range of motion in the spine. Activities such as bending, twisting, or sitting for prolonged periods can exacerbate the symptoms.
Physical therapy is often recommended as a non-surgical treatment option for individuals with a herniated disc. It aims to address the underlying causes, alleviate symptoms, and promote healing. Physical therapists use a combination of techniques tailored to the individual's needs and condition. These may include:
Manual therapy:
Hands-on techniques such as spinal mobilizations, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue mobilizations can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve joint function.
Therapeutic exercises:
Physical therapists prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, enhance flexibility, and improve posture. These exercises may include stretching, core stabilization exercises, and targeted movements to alleviate pressure on the affected disc.
Pain management techniques:
Physical therapists employ various modalities to help manage pain associated with a herniated disc. These may include heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or traction. These modalities can help reduce inflammation, promote circulation, and provide temporary pain relief.
Education and posture correction:
Physical therapy emphasizes education on proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and postural awareness. Therapists educate individuals on techniques to maintain good spinal alignment, perform activities with reduced strain on the spine, and prevent future injuries.
Functional training:
Physical therapy aims to restore normal movement patterns and functional abilities affected by a herniated disc. Therapists assist individuals in regaining strength, flexibility, and coordination to perform daily activities without pain or limitations.
Home exercise program:
Physical therapists provide individuals with a customized home exercise program to continue their progress outside of therapy sessions. These exercises allow individuals to actively participate in their recovery, promote long-term healing, and reduce the risk of future disc herniations.
Give us a call so we can help you right away!
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or disc herniation, occurs when the soft, jelly-like center (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) of the disc. This condition commonly affects the spinal discs in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). The effects of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation.
When a disc herniates, it can exert pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in various symptoms. Common effects of a herniated disc include:
Pain: Herniated discs often cause localized pain in the affected area of the spine. The pain can be sharp, shooting, or aching, and it may radiate along the path of the affected nerve, leading to discomfort in the arms or legs.
Numbness and tingling:
The compression of nerves by a herniated disc can lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling. These sensations can be felt in the extremities, such as the hands, fingers, legs, or feet.
Muscle weakness:
Herniated discs can result in muscle weakness in the areas innervated by the affected nerves. This weakness may manifest as difficulty in lifting objects, reduced grip strength, or stumbling while walking.
Limited range of motion:
The pain and discomfort caused by a herniated disc can restrict movement and lead to a reduced range of motion in the spine. Activities such as bending, twisting, or sitting for prolonged periods can exacerbate the symptoms.
Physical therapy is often recommended as a non-surgical treatment option for individuals with a herniated disc. It aims to address the underlying causes, alleviate symptoms, and promote healing. Physical therapists use a combination of techniques tailored to the individual's needs and condition. These may include:
Manual therapy:
Hands-on techniques such as spinal mobilizations, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue mobilizations can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve joint function.
Therapeutic exercises:
Physical therapists prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, enhance flexibility, and improve posture. These exercises may include stretching, core stabilization exercises, and targeted movements to alleviate pressure on the affected disc.
Pain management techniques:
Physical therapists employ various modalities to help manage pain associated with a herniated disc. These may include heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or traction. These modalities can help reduce inflammation, promote circulation, and provide temporary pain relief.
Education and posture correction:
Physical therapy emphasizes education on proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and postural awareness. Therapists educate individuals on techniques to maintain good spinal alignment, perform activities with reduced strain on the spine, and prevent future injuries.
Functional training:
Physical therapy aims to restore normal movement patterns and functional abilities affected by a herniated disc. Therapists assist individuals in regaining strength, flexibility, and coordination to perform daily activities without pain or limitations.
Home exercise program:
Physical therapists provide individuals with a customized home exercise program to continue their progress outside of therapy sessions. These exercises allow individuals to actively participate in their recovery, promote long-term healing, and reduce the risk of future disc herniations.
Give us a call so we can help you right away!
