Herniated discs can be a painful condition that can affect your mobility and disrupt your daily routine. It is the result of a tear in the outer layer of a spinal disc that can cause the disc’s inner material to push out and compress the nerves around it. A herniated disc can cause intense pain, numbness, and muscle weakness in the affected area. In this blog post, we will discuss the best treatment options available for herniated discs that can help you feel better and get back to your routine.
How to Treat Herniated Discs
Herniated discs can be a painful and debilitating condition but thankfully there are a variety of effective treatment options available. Chiropractors are specialists in musculoskeletal treatments and can use gentle adjustments to help reduce pressure on the affected disc. Massage can also be used to relieve tension and promote the healing of the surrounding muscles. Physiotherapy can help with stretching and strengthening exercises to improve mobility and reduce the risk of future injury. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your individual needs and preferences. With the right attention and care, most patients are able to successfully manage their herniated discs and return to their normal activities.
How to Relieve Pain From Herniated Discs
When it comes to managing the pain caused by herniated discs, seeking professional help can provide effective relief. Chiropractic doctors specialize in spinal manipulation to readjust the spine and alleviate pressure on the affected disc. Massage is also a viable option as it can reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and help release endorphins to manage pain. Physiotherapists can be helpful as well, with targeted exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the affected area and improve posture. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. With the right care, pain relief from herniated discs is achievable.
Who Should I See For Herniated Discs
If you are seeking relief for herniated discs, you may be wondering who to turn to. Fortunately, there are professionals who specialize in treating this condition. A chiropractor, for example, can offer treatments that can alleviate the pain and stiffness caused by herniated discs. Additionally, massage may be a helpful method of soothing muscles that are strained or inflamed due to herniation. It is also worthwhile to consider physio which focuses on helping you regain strength and mobility through exercises and other techniques. Ultimately, the type of care you seek will depend on your individual needs and preferences so it is important to explore all available options and consult with healthcare professionals to find the best treatment plan for you.
Top 5 Tips to Relieve Pain From Herniated Discs
Herniated discs can be a real pain, literally. It’s a condition where the tissue between the vertebrae ruptures, leading to unbearable pain and discomfort. Luckily, there are numerous ways to relieve this pain. Chiropractors are known to offer highly effective spinal manipulation techniques that can alleviate the pressure on the affected nerve. Registered massage therapists (RMT) can also be very effective in helping to relax the affected muscle and improve blood flow. Finally, a physiotherapist can provide a range of exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles around the affected area reducing the pain and enabling a faster recovery. By following these top 5 tips, you can be on the road to recovery and relief from the pain caused by herniated discs.
10 Best Ways to Treat Herniated Discs
When it comes to treating herniated discs, there are several effective approaches, including medical interventions and conservative treatments. Here are ten of the best ways to treat herniated discs:
1. Physiotherapy: A structured exercise program designed by a physiotherapist can help improve flexibility and strengthen the surrounding muscles and alleviate pain caused by a herniated disc.
2. Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can provide temporary relief from pain and reduce inflammation. Prescription medications may be necessary for severe pain.
3. Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs): These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the area around the herniated disc, reducing inflammation and relieving pain. ESIs are typically administered by a pain management specialist.
4. Heat and Cold: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Cold is recommended during the acute phase while heat can be beneficial during the recovery phase.
5. Massage: RMTs can provide relief by using techniques that target the muscles around the herniated disc promoting relaxation and increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension.
6. Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors may use spinal adjustments and other manual therapies to realign the spine and alleviate pressure on the herniated disc. This approach can provide relief and improve mobility for some individuals.
7. Traction Treatment: This technique involves stretching the spine to relieve pressure on the herniated disc. It can be done manually or with the help of mechanical devices.
8. Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing and pain relief responses. Acupuncture has been reported to provide relief for some individuals with herniated discs.
9. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): TENS units deliver low-voltage electrical currents to the affected area which can help reduce pain by interfering with the transmission of pain signals.
10. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating healthy habits such as maintaining good posture, practicing proper body mechanics, engaging in regular exercise and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can contribute to the long-term management of herniated discs.
It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a spine specialist or orthopedic surgeon, who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options based on your individual needs.
In conclusion, the best treatment for herniated discs depends on the severity of the condition, overall health, and other factors such as age. Non-surgical treatments are usually the first line of treatment, followed by surgical treatments if non-surgical treatments are ineffective. Alternative treatments and home remedies can also help to manage pain and improve the condition. Preventing herniated discs involves maintaining good posture, practicing good body mechanics, exercising regularly, and lifting heavy objects correctly. Always consult a doctor before starting any treatment for herniated discs.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sam Heslip, RMT, or another Kitchener RMT at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
