Lumbar Disc Herniation, commonly known as “slip-disc,” is a condition that causes lower back and leg pain. It occurs when the cushion-like structure between spinal discs, responsible for shock absorption, bulges out through a weak or torn disc wall. Although this condition can cause excruciating pain, most cases don’t require surgery, and the classic symptoms typically resolve with non-invasive treatment options. In this blog post, we will demystify the myths surrounding lumbar disc herniation and understand whether it goes away on its own, with chiropractic care or physiotherapy.
Myth 1: Lumbar Disc Herniation can go away on its own.
Many people believe that herniated discs can resolve spontaneously without treatment. However, it’s essential to dispel this myth as bulged spinal discs do not “unherniate” by themselves. While some mild herniations may heal on their own, moderate to severe herniations usually require proper treatment. It is not uncommon for lumbar disc herniation symptoms to persist for several months and even years if left untreated. Therefore, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as you start experiencing symptoms.
Myth 2: Chiropractic care can worsen lumbar disc herniation.
Many people believe that chiropractic care can worsen herniated discs. Still, the truth is that a skilled chiropractor can provide safe and effective treatment to alleviate the pain. Chiropractors employ non-invasive techniques such as spinal adjustments, traction, and muscle stimulation to treat lumbar disc herniation successfully. They restore the spinal column’s normal alignment, reducing the pressure on discs and alleviating back pain, improving spinal function and flexibility.
Myth 3: Physiotherapy is just exercise and cannot treat lumbar disc herniation.
Physiotherapy is not just about exercise, stretching muscles, or loosening the body. It is a complete, interactive approach that can help treat lumbar disc herniation effectively. Physiotherapists use various techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, ultrasound, and kinesiology tape to improve spinal mobility, alleviate pain, and provide relief from lumbar disc herniation. They also teach you posture corrections, ergonomic techniques, and custom-made orthotics to prevent further injuries.
Myth 4: Lumbar disc herniation always requires surgery.
It’s often a common belief that herniated discs always require surgery. However, the truth is that surgery is just one of the treatment options, and it’s not the first line of treatment. Several non-invasive treatment methods like chiropractic care, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and massage can help treat lumbar disc herniation. Surgery is usually reserved as a last resort option, only when conservative treatments fail, and for severe or prolonged spine damage due to a herniated disc.
Myth 5: Lumbar Disc Herniation treatment is a long, painful process.
Many people believe that treating lumbar disc herniation is a time-consuming and painful process, but that’s not true. Lumbar disc herniation treatment is non-invasive and can be customized based on the individual’s symptoms, and the severity of the condition. The treatment can help alleviate pain and improve spinal function within a few weeks, provided you seek prompt medical attention. Chiropractic care and physiotherapy are evidence-based treatments that can help manage pain and treat conditions without the use of painkillers or invasive procedures.
In conclusion, Lumbar Disc Herniation is not a rare occurrence, and most people can experience it in their lifetime. However, it’s essential to understand the misconceptions surrounding this condition and seek prompt medical attention. Various non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment options, including chiropractic care, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy, can help treat lumbar disc herniation. However, the effectiveness of these treatments may vary based on the individual’s symptoms and the severity of the condition. Therefore, it’s best to consult a medical professional to understand the best course of treatment for you.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
