What are spinal discs?
Spinal discs are made up of a tough flexible outer layer called the annulus and a soft jelly like center called the nucleus.
These discs are located between each vertebral body and its function is to transmit forces throughout your spinal joints.
A slipped or ruptured disc is when the soft jelly-like material (nucleus) pushes beyond the disc space. If the nucleus compresses a nearby nerve, it may result in pain.
Common Symptoms of herniated lumbar disc
- Aching, dull back pain
- Sharp, piercing pain radiating to the legs and feet
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
Likely Activity Restrictions
- Pain or difficulty bending or twisting back
- Walking
- Standing up from a chair
- Remaining in one position for a long period of time
When to seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if you have any pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness travelling down your arms or legs!
How can physical therapy help?
- Physical therapy is a very effective treatment for disc issues. At Respire Physical Therapy, you will receive a comprehensive evaluation that will determine what is causing pressure on your spinal discs. Based on those findings, a physical therapist will design a personalized plan of care to alleviate symptoms and improve motion.
3 ways to prevent disc injuries
- Core strengthening – strengthening your trunk and abdominal muscles help stabilize and support your spine
- Maintain a good posture – keeping a good posture can decrease pressure on your spine and discs.
- Stretching exercises – stretching can help lengthen the muscles that surround your spine and can help maintain healthy joint/disc space.
CALL RESPIRE TODAY at 571-265-9570 and get back to living your life without back pain!
Tags: Disc Injury, Spine Injury, Back pain, Back pain prevention, Numbness and Tingling, Physical Therapy, Spinal disc
