Back Pain – Herniated Discs FAQ
In today’s strenuous society, we are constantly on the go. We barely stop our momentum to take care of some minor issues in life. We overlook minor ailments such us common cold, sore throat and even a toothache. There are just not enough hours in the day to solve all of these problems. However for those suffering from back pain, moving on while neglecting the pain is a tall order . Sharp and lingering pains stemming from a herniated disc can be incapacitating. The spasms and aches from the crushed nerves feel as if with one step, it will all be over. How does one manage the painful experience? Is it treatable and does it enable one to continue a normal routine? The following question and answer discussion endeavors to illuminate some of the basic issues about the subject.
What is herniated disc and what causes it?
A disc becomes herniated when it is pressed against nerve endings. This pressure can spawn into an excruciating pain that could lead to numbness and stinging feeling. Although there are a multitude of different causes, a herniated disc is normally associated with old age. As we age, the discs in our spine become brittle and could actually lose some of its cushion. The effect is that the disc may be subjected to tear, forcing the nucleus to push through and end up putting pressure on the nerves. Sport related injuries and lifting weights incorrectly are just a few additional reasons why many people experience a herniated disc at least once in their lifetime .
What are the associated signs?
People afflicated with herniated discs experience pain in the back and leg portion. The pressure applied on the nerve is likely to cause a tingling sensation, numbness, intermitent pain and sometimes muscle spasms.
Is there a way to stop it from recurring?
Although the occurrence is inevitable, you can minimize the possibility of sustaining an injury. Be sure to stretch daily, exercise properly and most importantly, avoid smoking. Such unhealthy habits increases the risk of disc degeneration. Also if you lift heavy objects, make sure you are in the correct posture by using your knees rather than your back.
How is a herniated disc treated?
The most effective treatment for a herniated disc is spinal decompression therapy. Fortunately, this treatment is non-surgical, non-invasive and definitely, a lot cheaper than most procedures. The treatment procedure underscores the application of pressure to your spine. In this process, the discs are stretched to allow the blood supply and other essential nutrients to circulate into the spine. Once the disc regains flexibility, healing begins and the occurence of muscle spasms are reduced. Spinal decompression therapy is perfect for a herniated disc because the treatment itself is pain-free. The procedure requires you to lie on a table and have to be hooked to a strap which is the source of pressure to your spine. Patients who undergo 4-5 sessions of spinal decompression therapy per week are hopeful that the treatment will enable them to go back to normalcy. They can actually focus on more important things, rather than being stuck on the couch in debilitating pain. Finally a big sigh of relief because a reliable treatment is available.
