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What is a Disc Herniation?
A disc herniation occurs when a spinal disc’s soft, gel-like center pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior layer. This injury can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in various parts of the body. Disc herniation most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine) and requires medical attention for proper treatment. At Resilient Performance Physical Therapy, we offer relief for the discomfort caused by disc herniation through personalized treatment plans.
Bulging vs. Herniated Disc
A bulging disc refers to a condition where the disc protrudes outward but remains intact, while a herniated disc means the disc’s inner material has broken through the outer layer. Both conditions can cause discomfort, but a herniated disc is typically more painful and severe, often resulting in nerve impingement that leads to significant symptoms.
What Does a Disc Herniation Mean?
Having a herniated disc means that the inner portion of the spinal disc has been pushed out of its normal boundary. This can place pressure on the nearby spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs. Disc herniation is often the result of natural aging or injury to the spine.
Disc Herniation Symptoms
- Local or radiating pain (often in the back, legs, or arms)
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
- Decreased range of motion in the spine
Disc Herniation Causes
Disc herniation can happen gradually due to repetitive motion or suddenly due to trauma. Causes include, but are not limited to:
Age-Related Degeneration
Over time, spinal discs lose water content and become less flexible, making them more prone to tearing or rupturing.
Lifting Injuries
Lifting heavy objects improperly or sudden twisting motions can cause disc herniation.
Trauma
Accidents or direct blows to the spine can cause disc rupture, leading to herniation.
Repetitive Movements
Activities that require repetitive bending or twisting can increase the risk of disc herniation.
Immediate Treatment for Disc Herniation
If you suspect a herniated disc, seeking medical care for proper diagnosis and treatment is essential. Your doctor may recommend rest, anti-inflammatory medications, or physical therapy. In some cases, more advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. Avoid strenuous activities that can further aggravate the condition.
Disc Herniation Physical Therapy
After the initial pain and inflammation have been managed, physical therapy is often recommended to restore strength and flexibility to the affected area. Physical therapy exercises can help relieve nerve pressure, improve muscular control to better support the spine, and prevent future injuries. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged disc or remove the portion compressing the nerves.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc, contact us today through our online contact form to schedule an appointment at Resilient Performance Physical Therapy in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. Let us help you regain your mobility and live a pain-free life.