What Are Lumbar Disc Herniations?

Our spine is made up of 24 discs that form our vertebrae and serious injury to any of these discs can happen. The most common area of the spine where people hurt their discs is, the lumbar spine. More than 50 percent of people will experience some form of lower back pain. If you have experienced back pain or a condition, come to the best physical therapy in Shirley at United Rehab Physical Therapy.

Causes

There are numerous reasons as to why you may have a herniated disc and those reasons could be:

Age - As you age, the water and plasticity in the discs become worn down which can lead to herniation.
Lifting - The way you lift an object could seriously injure your lumbar discs and your back as a whole. If you do not use your legs when lifting a heavy object, the pressure could be too much for your spine. You may not feel pain at first, but lifting the wrong way will catch up to you.
Occupation - Depending on what you do for a living, back pain may go hand and hand. Repetitive motions can lead to injury so it is important to learn proper techniques on how to lift and how to move your back.

Prevention

You may be able to avoid surgery to heal your spine. There are quite a number of solutions out there that don’t involve a surgeon. Our physical therapy in Shirley can recommend some ways to properly treat your lumbar disc herniations.

Exercise - Even if your job is not strenuous on your back, lack of physical activity can have negative effects on both your mental and physical health. Getting proper exercise will help strengthen your spine.

Weight - With exercise, you will also help with your weight. If you are overweight, this can add more pressure to your spine which can deteriorate your discs’ health faster.

Posture - If you are looking for a minute way to improve your spinal health, improving your posture can help reduce the stress put on the spinal discs. Poor posture can also lead to lack of energy.

Epidural Steroid Injection - An ES Injection is of the cortisone drug variety which can help for the time being. Depending on the severity of the condition, our physical therapist in Shirley can devise a treatment plan to get you back on track.

If you suffer from a herniated disc, there are other options rather than surgery. Our physical therapy in Shirley can help you get on the right track to recovery and have you feeling better. Contact us today!