A herniated disc is a common and often debilitating condition of the vertebrae. A herniated disc occurs when the inner layer of the soft part of the spinal disc pushes out of the outer, harder core of the cartilage into the spine. This can cause extreme back pain that shoots up and down the spinal wall into the legs as the condition effects the nerves in the spine. Though physical therapy is not considered a cure for a herniated disc, it is considered a possible treatment for the symptoms associated with this condition.
Physical Therapy Basics
From the moment a disc becomes herniated, physical therapy can begin. According to the Mayo Clinic, during physical therapy session, a professional physical therapist will apply heat and ice therapies, traction (the straightening of the back via mechanical instruments) and electrical stimulation to the back. Ultrasounds might be performed to track the progress of therapy. A physical therapist will create exercises that will increase core and back health take strain off of the herniated disc.
Modified Activities
A physical therapist will also recommend modified activities. A herniated disc is not a high stress back injury so complete immobilization of your back and movement is not necessary. However, slight modification of certain movement in your daily routine is important to consider until the herniated disc heals. A physical therapist will recommend a cessation of activities such as heavy lifting, bending, prolonged sitting and the use of equipment like a rowing machine. Of course use caution if pain occurs during any regular activities. Most people with herniated discs are able to continue their daily work--unless the work includes heavy lifting or other strenuous use of the back.
Medicines
Along with meeting with physical therapists, modifying certain activities and doing recommended exercises assigned by a health care professional, taking over the counter medicines might be used as treatment in coordination with what your physical therapist has you doing. Medicines such NSAIDs (aspirin and ibuprofen), acetaminophen (Tylenol) and naproxen (Aleve) are effective in treating pain. NSAIDs might cause gastrointestinal bleeding if taken in large doses for extended periods of time. Tylenol is known to cause liver damage in some patients if taken in large doses. Use the medicines with caution. If these medicines do not work, and you experience severe pain, a doctor might prescribe pain medicines.
Additional
Starting physical therapy for a herniated disc immediately is the best time to begin your healing process. However, waiting a week or a month is fine as well. When to start physical therapy is entirely your choice. Symptoms and pain from the herniated disc usually last about 4-6 weeks before significant improvement occurs.
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