Your back is designed to bend and twist, allowing you to move around freely. However, the construction of your spine does have its limitations and weak points. There are discs that run up and down your spine that provide cushioning to the bones. The problem is it doesn't take much at all for one of these discs to become herniated.
When this happens, it can cause an array of problems to happen, and it can even lead to a ruptured disc. When a disc ruptures, the fluid inside of it will leak out, and this can lead to the disc becoming flattered and flatter, causing you more pain and problems down the road. This article will help you to learn some of the different treatments that can be used to try to correct a herniated disc and to make the pain less severe.
Physical therapy – Your doctor is probably going to suggest you go to physical therapy if it has been determined that you have a herniated disc. There are a lot of different things that physical therapy can do in order to help you along with your treatment. They can show you a variety of exercises and stretches that you can do to help strengthen your back and that can help slowly correct the problem. Strengthening your back is important because a stronger back will help support the weak area better which means less pain and less risk of more injuries. The physical therapist can also use other means to help you get over some of the pain, such as electric stimulation, ice therapy, heat therapy and even ultrasound.
Chiropractic care – A chiropractor may be able to help you by manipulating your back in a way that can eventually get the disc to go back in the proper position. Even if they can't get the end result of a disc that goes back in place, they can still treat you in a way that helps relieve some of the pressure and realign things, so you leave the office in less pain than when you arrived. It is very important to bring your x-rays with you the first time you visit a chiropractor. They need to know right where your injuries are, so they can manipulate your back without causing more problems.
Medication therapy – Your doctor will also be able to help you to feel better by prescribing you medications they feel are a good fit. These medications can include an anti-inflammatory that helps to bring down the inflammation, which means less pain. They may also give you some type of pain medication or muscle relaxers to help you get through each day in a more pain-free manner.
For more information, contact a company like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates.