How Can Physiotherapy Help With Spinal Disc Herniation?
Spinal disc herniation can cause severe pain and discomfort, limiting your ability to carry out everyday activities. While surgery is often the go-to solution, it is not always necessary. Physiotherapy is a non-invasive approach that can help alleviate the symptoms of spinal disc herniation. In this blog, we will discuss how physiotherapy can help with spinal disc herniation and explore the benefits of this treatment option.
Causes And Symptoms Of Spinal Disc Herniation
Spinal disc herniation, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a condition that occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out through a crack in the tough exterior. The most common cause of spinal disc herniation is age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs, but it can also occur due to sudden trauma or injury.
The symptoms of spinal disc herniation can vary depending on the location of the herniated disc and the extent of nerve compression. Common symptoms include pain, numbness or tingling in the affected area, weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerve, and even loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis Of Spinal Disc Herniation
Diagnosing spinal disc herniation usually starts with a physical exam and medical history review. During the physical exam, the physiotherapist may check your reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation in different parts of your body. They may also ask you to perform certain movements or positions to assess the range of motion in your spine and identify any areas of pain or discomfort.
In some cases, additional tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. These tests may include imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Imaging studies can help identify the location, size, and severity of the herniation, as well as any other underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Once a diagnosis of spinal disc herniation is confirmed, your physiotherapist can develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications, so it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible if you experience symptoms of a herniated disc.
How Physiotherapy Can Help With Spinal Disc Herniation
Spinal disc herniation can be debilitating, causing severe pain and discomfort that interferes with daily life. Fortunately, physiotherapy can help alleviate the symptoms of spinal disc herniation and promote healing.
A physiotherapist can design a treatment plan that includes exercises and techniques to improve mobility, flexibility, and strength in the affected area. One such technique is spinal decompression, which involves gently stretching the spine to relieve pressure on the affected disc. This can be achieved through manual therapy techniques or the use of specialised equipment such as a spinal decompression table.
Additionally, a physiotherapist can work with patients to develop a home exercise program that can be done between appointments. This program may include exercises to strengthen the back and core muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility.
Other Treatment Options For Spinal Disc Herniation
Other treatment options for spinal disc herniation can include medication, steroid injections, and in some cases, surgery. Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain. If the pain is severe, corticosteroid injections can be administered to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgery may be considered if other treatment options do not relieve the pain or if there is a risk of nerve damage. In some cases, surgery involves removing the damaged portion of the disc or fusing two or more vertebrae together.
It is important to note that while these treatments may be effective, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best treatment options for your specific condition.
When To Seek Professional Help For Spinal Disc Herniation
Spinal disc herniation can be a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience symptoms such as severe back pain, numbness, or weakness in your limbs, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible.
A physiotherapist can help diagnose and treat spinal disc herniation, but if your symptoms are severe or do not improve with conservative treatments, your healthcare provider may recommend further medical intervention, such as surgery.
It is important to take any new or persistent symptoms seriously and seek professional help, as untreated spinal disc herniation can lead to further complications and even permanent damage. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of treatment for your individual case and guide you through the recovery process.
If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal disc herniation, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.
Final Thoughts
Spinal disc herniation can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort, and can significantly impact your quality of life. Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option to help alleviate symptoms and improve function. It’s important to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
At Upwell Health Collective, we offer a range of physiotherapy services to help you manage your spinal disc herniation and improve your overall wellbeing. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Please get in touch with us at Upwell Health at (03) 8849 9096 or book an appointment today.