People sometimes refer to herniated discs by other names, such as slipped, bulging, or ruptured discs. The problem occurs when a disc’s exterior, rubbery-like portion tears, allowing the soft inside to slip out. The event irritates the nerves, causing pain and numbness. A physical therapy clinic can help you understand the cause of your herniated disc and treat it.
Causes of a Herniated Disc
Disc herniation is usually a result of one of two issues: degenerative processes or trauma. Degeneration stems from aging. As people age, the pulposus of the disc become dehydrated and lose strength, which can lead to progressive disc herniation.
Trauma is the second most likely cause of a herniated disc. People may experience a fall or blow to the back, causing a slipped disc. Also, trauma can stem from car accidents or lifting injuries. Trauma only refers to the damage to the back, not the severity of the inciting incident.
On average, a herniated disc takes two to 12 weeks to heal. Physical therapy is typically recommended if the issues aren’t resolved by the third week. For more information, contact a practice for physical therapy near me.
What Physical Therapy Treatment Can Do
People should seek physical therapy treatment if a herniated disc does not seem to be healing on its own. The disc will recover in most situations, especially when the initial trauma is minor. Still, if the pain is progressive or doesn’t resolve, a physical therapist can help.
Physical therapy Durham, NC, focuses on exercises and treatments to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing. The therapy may include deep tissue massage, hands-on care, prescribed movement, stretching, core strengthening exercises, and other exercises to encourage correct posture, flexibility, core stability, and strength.
Depending on the severity of the condition, physical therapists may use hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation, and hot and cold therapy. The specific treatment plan depends on your particular injury and the level of trauma sustained.
It would be best to go in for a consultation to learn more about specific treatments. During an initial exam, the therapists will review any medical records pertinent to the issue, including X-rays. They may order new X-rays or imaging to examine the trauma for themselves. The therapists may also use ultrasound to capture movement in the soft tissue, something that X-rays, CT, and MRI can’t do.
By going to a physical therapist, you can learn the precise nature of your injury and figure out a practical treatment plan. Still, any real progress toward healing depends on your commitment to the treatment plan, including at-home exercises.
A herniated disc is an uncomfortable and painful condition. It often stems from routine aging, but accidents can also cause the injury. A physical therapist is not always necessary, but when healing slows, a therapist is the one you should call for support and treatment plans. If you are in your third week of recovery with a herniated disc, it might be time to call a therapist. Contact a local practice and request a consultation.