Chronic pain can be hard to bear, primarily when it affects your daily life activities. Several factors can cause chronic pain, including diseases, injuries, surgery, and others. Besides affecting your physical body, pain may affect your mental health, sleep, and energy.
Visiting a pain management specialist is key in restoring your health and relieving your pain. The Lawrenceburg herniated disc specialists at Elite Physical Medicine offer comprehensive care to minimize your pain and enhance your body’s function. If herniated discs prevent you from living your best life, call Elite Physical Medicine today to schedule your consultation.
What is a herniated disc?
Usually, there are 33 bones known as vertebrae in your neck and spine. The vertebrae have a circular disc made of flexible tissues and filled with gel, shielding them. The disc enhances the smooth movement of the spine, including bending and twisting.
The spinal discs contain a fibrous outer ring known as the annulus and the nucleus’s gel-filled center. A herniated disc damages the outer annulus making the nucleus shift out of the disc center. The situation leads to swelling that can put pressure on the spinal nerves, leading to pain.
They mainly occur on your neck or lower back but can also happen anywhere on your spine.
What are the causes of herniated discs?
The annulus tissue becomes weaker as you grow old; hence, the disc is more likely to slip. Poor posture can also result in the nucleus shifting out of place.
A herniated disc may also occur from the following:
- Spinal injuries
- Improper lifting
- Muscle weakness
- Sedentary lifestyle
People who are overweight or smokers are also at a high risk of developing a herniated disc.
What symptoms are you likely to experience when you have a herniated disc?
You are likely to experience the following symptoms if you have a herniated disc:
- Tingling
- Back or neck pain
- Numbness
- Hip or shoulder pain
- Muscle weakness
- Limited mobility
- Muscle spasm
- Pain that travels down your leg or arm
A herniated disc may also cause compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica, a condition that results from inflammation of the sciatic nerve.
What are the treatment options for sciatica?
Your provider at Elite Physical Medicine evaluates your herniated disc to determine its exact location and cause. Before recommending your treatment plan, the team also examines your health history, muscle strength, or walking ability. Imaging tests may also be necessary for accurate diagnosis.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Therapeutic exercise
- Joint injections
- Massage therapy
- Nerve blocks
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Surgery
Your treatment option at Elite Physical Medicine involves a three-part plan, including immediate pain relief, structural healing, and ongoing maintenance.
How can you prevent a herniated disc?
You can lower your risk or prevent a herniated disc through:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular exercise, strengthening and supporting your spine
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a good posture
Contact a herniated disc specialist today
Herniated disc causes uncomfortable symptoms that deteriorate your health and disrupt your peace. Finding relief from the condition is critical to improving your living. Contact Elite Physical Medicine today to have your consultation.