PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN Cure Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the cushion-like cartilage (the disc) between the vertebrae is torn and the gelatin-like core of the disc leaks. Herniated discs can be caused by sudden trauma or long-term pressure on the spine. This condition mainly affects people 30–50 years of age, and men are more likely to be diagnosed than women. The majority of herniated discs do not require surgery. In fact, they respond best to physical therapy. The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Discs separate each vertebra. The outer portion is a rubbery substance called the annulus fibrosus (AF), and the inside is filled with a gelatin-like substance called nucleus pulposus (NP). When people are young, the disc is soft and flexible and absorbs shock extremely well. As people age, the disc can lose flexibility, and when stress is applied, the AF can tear. Herniated discs can cause pain, tightness, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the neck, back, arms, or legs. If the bulging pushes on a nearby nerve, pain or muscle weakness may result. If a herniated disc is pressing severely on a nerve, surgery may be needed to immediately relieve that pressure.
If you think you have a herniated disc, your physical therapist will conduct an evaluation and ask you detailed questions about the injury. Be prepared to tell your PT how and when the pain started, where you feel discomfort, and about limitations in your daily routine. Your physical therapist will perform tests to assess your movement difficulty, weakness or tightness in the muscles, and numbness.
Once your physical therapist designs your specialized treatment plan, you will begin therapy by resting and avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms. Depending on your condition, your physical therapist may also suggest that you exercise in water to stay active. Throughout the process, your physical therapist will work with you to reduce your pain and symptoms; improve your posture, range of motion, flexibility, strength, and endurance; and return you to normal activities. If you are suffering from a herniated disc, call us today at 717- 591-0955 to start treatment.
SUDOKU
PASTAWITH TURKEY AND BROCCOLI
This simple, delicious recipe only takes 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s also a great way to encourage kids to eat their broccoli. The next time you make pasta, leave the canned sauce in the pantry and make this instead!
INGREDIENTS
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2 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
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3/4 pounds pasta (shells or orecchiette) 2 cups broccoli florets 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound ground turkey
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Salt
Parmesan cheese
DIRECTIONS
Cook while breaking up meat with a wooden spoon for 3–5 minutes. 3. Combine turkey with pasta
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli when pasta is 1 minute from done. Drain both and return to pot. 2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey, garlic, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of salt.
and broccoli mixture, adding the remaining olive oil as you stir. Serve in bowls topped with Parmesan cheese.
Recipe inspired by realsimple.com.
www.GilbertPT.com | 3
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