Health & Wellness Newsletter: Understanding Herniated Discs by Heart of Texas Physical Therapy
NEWSLETTER
UNDERSTANDING HERNIATED DISCS
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NEWSLETTER
UNDERSTANDING HERNIATED DISCS
Are you struggling with severe lower back pain? Did you injure your back when bending or twisting? You could be suffering from a herniated disc. A herniated disc is one of the most painful back injuries that you can experience, and it is far more common than you may be initially aware of. A herniated disc is commonly associated with severe or sharp pain starting in the lower back (or neck) radiating down the leg (or arm). It can be so intense that people struggle to do everyday activities. Call Heart of Texas Physical Therapy today to make an appointment. With guidance from our physical therapists, you can find solutions to your pain and get back to living the life you enjoy! What Is A Herniated Disc? Your spine comprises a series of interlocking bones, called vertebrae, with a specialized tissue in-between each vertebra called the intervertebral disc (aka disc). The structure of your spine is what allows you to move freely forward and back, rotationally and from side to side.
The discs provide cushioning and allow motion throughout the levels of the spine. The disc consists of fluid, the consistency of toothpaste, and moves depending on the positions and movements we perform. As we get older, the disc will start to break down and dehydrate, making it more susceptible to herniation. A herniated disc is a condition in which the nucleus pulposus (located within the center of the disc) herniates. This herniation causes pain and maybe even more pain if the herniated disc begins to press on the adjacent spinal nerves, causing pain and inflammation.
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If you would like to find relief for your back pain, call us today: 254-301-7374
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UNDERSTANDING HERNIATED DISCS
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Causes Of Disc Herniation The most common cause of disc herniation is the degenerative process. As we age, the disc is less hydrated, and it weakens. This process makes the disc more susceptible to herniation. The second most common cause of disc herniation is trauma. The most common injuries are bending, twisting, and lifting events. It is also possible to herniate from traumas related to sports injuries or car accidents. In these cases, the herniation occurs as a result of overloading of pressure on the disc. A recent study found that static overloading, like prolonged sitting and sedentary lifestyles, may be the mechanism in younger people without significant degeneration in their discs. The prolonged postures, especially slouched postures, lead to a shearing type of pressure that weakens the disc, making it more susceptible to herniation. Risk factors that can increase your risk of a herniated disk include: • Smoking . It's thought that smoking lessens the oxygen supply to the disk, causing it to break down more quickly. • Weight. Excess body weight causes extra stress on the disks in your lower back. • Occupation. People with physically demanding jobs that require repetitive lifting, bending, and twisting also can increase their risk of a herniated disk. • Sedentary lifestyles. Prolonged sitting postures, whether in an office or vehicle, have a greater risk of back problems. • Genetics. Some people inherit a predisposition to
Your physical therapist will perform a thorough physical examination and provide you with solutions that work based on the findings. A combination of passive and active techniques is typically employed, including: Education Understanding the source of your pain and managing it can help you be proactive and find a solution. Advice To Stay Active It is crucial to stay active. Your physical therapist can help you identify modifications to painful tasks and help you be safe and active. Therapeutic Interventions A physical therapist will tailor your exercises, monitor you, and progress you based on your individual needs. Supervised exercise therapy includes: • Range of motion exercises • Proper stretches exercises • Strength exercises • Manual therapy techniques for pain relief and improved mobility • Electrical stimulation for pain relief Contact Our Clinic Today Physical therapy aims to restore range of motion and improve strength while reducing the general experience of pain. It provides targeted exercises that support the spinal joints with precise movements that help reinforce strength and range of motion. Call Heart of Texas Physical Therapy today for a comprehensive assessment and learn what steps you can take to alleviate your pain and prevent further episodes.
developing a herniated disk. Treatment for Herniated Discs
If you suspect that you may have a herniated disc, contact a physical therapist right away. Attempting to engage in therapy at home could lead to further injury. It is best to have an experienced therapist assess your injury before attempting any treatment options.
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“They had a very comprehensive recovery plan that now has me doing the things I did before my back issues.” “Dr. Brindle and Lisa are the best. I had major back surgery last October. Disc replacement, fusion etc. They had a very comprehensive recovery plan that now has me doing the things I did before my back issues. During the therapy for my back, I had difficulty lifting above my head because there was a thought that I needed rotator cuff surgery on my right shoulder. Dr. Brindle said he could help eliminate the pain. After about 8 visits I have been pain free and have total use of my right arm. It was a frozen shoulder and no surgery is required. I want to thank Lisa for her expertise and knowledge, helping me through all of my visits. Everyone at Heart of Texas Therapy is outstanding and I would highly recommend them." – Harry S. KWWS VXGRNXFRP Qr/HYHO+DUG
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Has a pain flared up? Are you suffering with a new pain?
This exercise helps to strengthen back & core. EXERCISE OF THE MONTH BIRD DOG 4-POINT ARM & LEG RAISE KWWS VXGRNXFRP Begin by placing your knees and hands on the floor, with your hips and shoulders at a 90° angle. While keeping stable and engaging your core muscles, lift one arm and an opposite leg straight out toward the horizon, with your thumb pointed to the ceiling. Place both arm and leg back down to starting position. Perform 10 repetitions and then repeat this exercise with the opposite arm and leg. To build stability, this exercise can first be performed using only the arm or leg, and the opposing arm or leg can be added once ready for progression. Qr/HYHO+DUG
Do you want to become healthier, stronger, and more active? If you answered yes to any of these questions you need to come back to Heart of Texas Physical Therapy. Call us today! Call for an appointment today and start your journey to a healthier, happier, pain-free life. Call today 254-301-7374 PT CONSULTATION KWWS VXGRNXFRP Qr/HYHO+DUG
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