How Physiotherapy can help a Disc Herniation

Sept. 15, 2015 - PRLog -- Spinal Disc Herniations are caused by either trauma, lifting injuries, or other unknown causes, in which a tear in the outer ring of an intervertebral disc allows the softer, "gelatinous" portion to bulge outwards beyond the damaged outer ring. A disc herniation is a progressive development from a previously existing disc protrusion. This is commonly referred as a "slipped disc", but is not medically accurate because the spinal discs are fixed into position and cannot actually "slip". It is also referred to as "herniated disc", "prolapsed disc", and "ruptured disc".

Resulting from general wear and tear, disc herniations occur most commonly when performing jobs that require either constant sitting, squatting or lifting. Traumatic low back herniations occur during improper lifting from the waist.

Most minor herniations heal within several weeks of treatment, however, more severe herniation cases may not heal on their own and could require surgery.

Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the herniation and can range from little or no pain, to severe pain that radiates into regions affected by the nerves that are irritated or impinged by the herniated portion of the spine. Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, muscular weakness, paralysis and can affect reflexes.  These symptoms are unlike a pulsating pain, or pain that comes and goes (caused by muscle spasm), pain caused by a herniated disc is continuous in a specific part of the body and is typically experience on only one side of the body (either left or right).

A disc herniation occurs most commonly in either the neck (cervical spine) or low back (lumbar spine).  Cervical herniations occur in the neck and symptoms can affect the neck, shoulders, arms and hands. Lumbar herniations occur in the low back and symptoms can affect the buttocks, thigh, foot and toe. The sciatic nerve is the most commonly affected nerve, creating sciatica symptoms. The femoral nerve (runs from the hip, down the femur and leg) can also be affected causing numbness, or tingling sensations throughout the leg and down the foot. Initial treatment for a disc herniation consists of anti-inflammatory medications, and conjunctive therapies such as physiotherapy with a gradual exercise program. Surgery is the last resort in severe cases.

PhysioMax Wellness in Burlington Ontario provides various tips and treatments for every client's needs. Healthcare providers from this clinic are very knowledgeable about the treatments needed by patients in order to help them recover from their injuries. This multidisciplinary clinic in Burlington Ontario provides Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic and Massage Therapy in order to tend to any kind of injuries and prevent issues from occurring in the first place. Please contact us or visit www.physiomaxwellness.ca for more detailed information.