One of the most common causes of lower back pain is a disc protrusion. Bulging disc, herniated disc, pinched nerve, or a slipped disc are other names for a disc protrusion. Diagnoses for disc protrusions are more likely as we get older because of the natural deterioration of the spine. These problematic discs are usually asymptomatic; however, if the disc compresses on a nearby nerve root or spinal cord, it can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back. Other common symptoms of pinched nerves include pins and needles as well as numbness going down the legs. This occurs when the protruding disc irritates the sciatic nerve, the nerve cell that stems from the spine and goes all the way down to the toes.
South Coast Post Acute understands that lower back pain can undermine your daily routine because of how much the rest of the body depends on the back for support. With this diagnosis, it takes an average of 4 to 6 weeks to see a full recovery. There is a multitude of ways that one can manage the pain of this injury during that time. Here are just a few treatment paths that someone can do to take care of their herniated disc.
Heating and Icing
When a disc is inflamed, regularly heating and icing the problem area can help reduce the swelling. First, use heating pads to relax the muscles for about twenty minutes. Now applying heat causes muscles to expand, so it is critical to ice for forty minutes to reduce the muscles back down to their normal size.
Physical Therapy or Chiropractic Treatments
Most people choose to go to either a physical therapy or chiropractor for regular sessions during their recovery period. Physical Therapists restore muscle strength through exercises while Chiropractors adjust the spine and massage the back to relieve pain. People can go to either or both of these medical professionals in order to treat slipped discs.
Spinal Surgery
In some cases and depending on how severe the pain and injury are, people choose to undergo spinal surgery in order to reduce the inflamed disc. The surgery is very minimal and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Surgeons will correct the abnormalities through surgical techniques in order to provide relief.
Here at South Coast Post Acute, we understand that recovery from an injury requires persistent care and a patient mind. If you or a loved one is experiencing lower back pain, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for support.
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