Rehab Access. Understanding Herniated Discs

Back pain can develop for all sorts of reasons. From a car accident to bad posture, to an uncomfortable seat for a prolonged period of time, back pain can come out of nowhere and cause no small amount of discomfort once it arrives.

The Newsletter About Your Health And Caring For Your Body Health & Fitness

Understanding Herniated Discs Is Your Back Pain Caused By A Herniated Disc?

ALSO INSIDE • Treatment For Herniated Discs • Relieve Back Pain In Minutes • Patient Success Story

The Newsletter About Your Health And Caring For Your Body Health & Fitness

Back pain can develop for all sorts of reasons. From a car accident to bad posture, to an uncomfortable seat for a prolonged period of time, back pain can come out of nowhere and cause no small amount of discomfort once it arrives. There are some back injuries, however, that are even more painful than your run-of-the-mill back pain. 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. What is a Herniated Disc? Your spine is made up of a series of interlocking bones with small cushions in-between each joint socket. The structure of your spine is what allows you to move freely from side to side. Every time you crunch your abdomen by bending forward, or lean to one side or another for a deep stretch, those little vertebral bodies move with you, keeping you comfortable and your back strong. Without cushioning in between each of those sockets, the bones would rub against one another with every movement, and this would be incredibly painful. When a disc becomes herniated, the cushioning in between the vertebrae will rupture, essentially deflating the cushioning in between the vertebrae and causing the bones to begin to rub against one another. This is painful enough as it is, but can become even more Understanding Herniated Discs Is Your Back Pain Caused By A Herniated Disc?

painful if the herniated disc actually begins to press on the adjacent spinal nerves, causing the pain to spread even further up the spine. The most common placement for a herniated disc is at the lumbar vertebrae in the lower back. While it is not the only reason that pain can become severe in the lower back, it is definitely one of the most severe forms of back pain. If you suspect that you may have experienced a herniated disc it is important that you seek medical attention, such as from your physical therapist. A herniated disc will not heal on its own, and working with a physical therapist is one of the best ways to experience relief from the pain associated with this common concern. How Physical Therapy Counters the Problem The vertebrae in the spine are stacked closely together, with only a small amount of space for the discs in between each bone. A disc can become herniated as a result of injury, car accident, or even simply from overuse. One of the most common causes of a herniated disc is heavy lifting. Weight lifters have to be especially wary not to suddenly lift something too heavy, otherwise risk experiencing a slipped disc. But experienced gym goers are not the only ones at risk. Every time you attempt to move a piece of furniture, a heavy box, or even a big bag of books you need to be wary to lift correctly, otherwise face the risk of potentially herniating a disc in your back.

Gretna Location (504) 365-1020 Belle Chasse Location (504) 398-2004

3. If further assessment is

1. Feel free to call us and ask to speak to your therapist.

2. Your therapist can discuss with you why your pain is bothering you again and what you might do about it at home.

warranted, your therapist might recommend you come in for an appointment.

Pain associated with a herniated disc often develops in the sciatica nerve, and doesn’t subside with simple rest and relaxation. While hot and cold therapy will help alleviate the pain associated with many different back issues, it won’t make the pain of a herniated disc go away.The pain is often frequently associated with numbness, weakness, and tingling in the legs. In many situations, the pain will feel more severe after initial movement, such as standing up or laying down. Many people mistakenly refer to having a herniated disc as having “pinched a nerve,” but that is not the case. Physical therapy is a great resource for attempting to overcome the pain associated with a herniated disc. A combination of passive and active techniques is typically employed, including deep tissue massage, electrical stimulation, and hydrotherapy, as well as deep stretching and strength building. 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. If you’re suffering from back pain due to a herniated disc, call your physical therapist at Rehab Access today to schedule your appointment! Treatment For Herniated Discs

Patient Success Story Hear Why Our Patients Love Us! “I came to Rehab Access after a total knee replacement on a walker and home therapy. In about a month of treatment 3 times a week, I went to a cane and am now walking on my own. The staff was friendly and cheerful. They pushed me to do better. I am very pleased with their work.” - D. S.

Congratulations!

Raven

Breanna

Congratulations are in order for two of our physical therapy technicians. Raven and Breanna have been accepted into Delgado’s Physical Therapy Assistant Program. We are so proud of these ladies!

Relieve Back Pain In Minutes

Healthy Recipe

Try this movement to relieve back pain.

Spinach & Egg Sweet Potato Toast

RELIEVES BACK PAIN

www.simpleset.net

• 1 large egg, fried or poached • ½ teaspoon sliced fresh chives • ½ teaspoon hot sauce

Ingredients • 1 large slice sweet potato ( ¼ inch thick) • ⅓ cup cooked spinach

Runner’s Step Lay on your stomach with your arms overhead and your legs slightly spread out. Press your chest upwards, keeping the muscles in your trunk and legs relaxed. Repeat 6-10 times.

Directions Toast sweet potato in a toaster or toaster oven until just cooked through and starting to brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Top with spinach, egg, chives and hot sauce.

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