Herniated Disc
Treatment
Canberra

Seek support for a herniated disc with Powerhouse.

What Is a
Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a condition that affects the spine, specifically the intervertebral discs. These discs are cushion-like pads located between the bones (vertebrae) of the spine. They act as shock absorbers, allowing the spine to bend, twist, and bear weight. Each disc has a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a soft, gel-like centre called the nucleus pulposus.

A herniated disc occurs when the annulus fibrosus weakens or tears, allowing the nucleus pulposus to push out or herniate. This displacement can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lumbar spine (lower back), but they can also affect the cervical spine (neck) and, less frequently, the thoracic spine (mid-back).

What Causes
a Herniated Disc?

Several factors can contribute to the development of a herniated disc. One of the primary causes is degenerative disc disease. As people age, the intervertebral discs naturally lose water content, becoming less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing. This degeneration can make the discs more susceptible to injury from everyday activities or minor trauma.

Injury is another common cause. A sudden strain on the spine, such as from lifting a heavy object incorrectly, can cause a disc to herniate. This is particularly likely if the person already has weakened discs due to age or a pre-existing condition.

Repetitive motion or chronic stress on the spine can also lead to disc herniation. Occupations or activities that involve repetitive bending, twisting, or lifting can place ongoing stress on the discs, increasing the risk of herniation over time.

Other risk factors include genetics, which can predispose individuals to disc problems, obesity, which places additional strain on the spine, and smoking, which can reduce blood flow to the discs, accelerating degeneration.

Herniated Disc
Symptoms

The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location of the herniation and the severity of nerve compression. In some cases, a person may have a herniated disc without any symptoms, particularly if the herniation does not press on nearby nerves. However, when symptoms do occur, they can be debilitating.

 

Lumbar Herniated Disc Symptoms

  • Lower back pain: This is the most common symptom, often described as a deep, aching pain that worsens with movement.
  • Sciatica: Pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg and into the foot. This occurs when the herniated disc compresses the sciatic nerve.
  • Numbness or tingling: Often felt in the leg or foot, corresponding to the affected nerve.
  • Weakness: In severe cases, the leg or foot may feel weak, making it difficult to walk or perform daily activities.

Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms

  • Neck pain: Often radiating into the shoulder or arm.
  • Arm pain: This can be sharp and shooting, particularly if the herniation affects the nerves that serve the arm.
  • Numbness or tingling: Often in the arm or fingers.
  • Weakness: In the shoulder, arm, or hand, which can impair grip strength or the ability to lift objects.

Thoracic Herniated Disc Symptoms

  • Mid-back pain: Less common, but can occur with a herniated disc in the thoracic spine.
  • Radiating pain: May spread around the chest or abdomen, depending on which nerves are affected.

Herniated Disc Treatment
Options

Treatment for a herniated disc typically begins with conservative measures, focusing on pain relief and promoting healing. In many cases, these treatments are effective, and surgery is not required.

Conservative Treatments

  • Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain can help reduce symptoms and allow the disc to heal.
  • Physical therapy: A physical therapist can design a program of exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice packs or heat to the affected area can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

If conservative treatments are not effective, or if the herniation is causing significant nerve compression, more aggressive treatments may be necessary.

Advanced Treatments

  • Epidural steroid injections: These injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the area around the herniated disc, reducing pain and inflammation.
  • Physical therapy: A physical therapist can design a program of exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice packs or heat to the affected area can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the spine and can prevent future disc problems.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, focusing on core strengthening and flexibility, helps support spinal health.
  • Posture correction: Practicing good posture while sitting, standing, and lifting can reduce the risk of further injury.

What Do We
Offer?

Holistic Methods

We make sure to take all factors into account when determining treatment. Whether you need soft tissue therapy, rehabilitative treatment, or sports knowledge, we combine methods that work.

Focused On You

Our team is experienced in treating a range of injuries and conditions. We prioritise listening to your needs to tailor treatments that work for you. If you want care with a personal touch, look no further.

Convenient Care

Powerhouse Physiotherapy is located in Canberra. Our services are available in Lyneham, National Hockey Centre for easy access. We recognise the value of community and work to support our home.

Get Back to Sport and
Daily Life With Help From Powerhouse

Whether you’re a professional athlete or just looking for support with an injury, a herniated disc can be painful and frustrating. Fortunately, support is available from the friendly team at Powerhouse Physio.

Get in touch with us today to book an appointment and receive local, personalised care from our experienced physiotherapists.

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