A herniated disc happens when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. When a disc herniation occurs, it often leads to symptoms such as back pain, numbness and weakness. Herniated discs can occur for many reasons, from heavy lifting to acute physical trauma. As you age, you may become more likely to herniate a disc. Disc herniations are most common among people in the 30-50 age range, research shows.
Herniated discs should not go untreated. If you have a herniated disc, physical therapy can help manage your symptoms and support you in recovery. Learning about how PT helps can illustrate the importance of professional intervention.
3 ways physical therapy can help with a herniated disc
- Improving alignment — Poor posture can put extra stress on your spine, making herniated disc symptoms worse. A physical therapist can help by teaching you how to sit, stand and move in ways that reduce back strain. They can show you how to keep your spine aligned, which may help reduce your symptoms. Depending on your needs, your physical therapist may also provide spinal adjustments. Better posture and alignment does more than prevent further disc irritation. It can also promote better long-term spinal health.
- Strengthening back muscles — Weak core and upper back muscles may put extra pressure on your spine, which can make it harder for your herniated disc to heal. If weak muscles are disrupting your healing, your physical therapist can help you find safe, effective strengthening exercises. These might include core exercises designed to stabilize your abdomen and upper back. They might also include back exercises targeting the injured area. Stronger muscles can help take pressure off your spine, enabling a less difficult recovery for your disc.
- Safe movement education — Certain movements can make a herniated disc worse. For example, twisting your upper body may aggravate inflammation and pain. Your physical therapist can help with education on safe movements. With guidance from your physical therapist, you can learn which movements to avoid. Your physical therapist may develop a gradual return-to-activity plan so that you know when you can return to different activities along your recovery journey.
REPAIR SI can help with your herniated disc recovery
If you’re dealing with a herniated disc, physical therapy can be essential to recovery. At REPAIR SI, we can help you reduce pain, regain strength and get back to doing what you love.
Contact our team today for more information on herniatic disc treatments or to schedule an initial appointment.