What is a Herniated Disk?

One of the most common back injuries we come across is herniated discs. AKA slipped or ruptured discs, which occur when the soft, jelly-like material inside a spinal disc protrudes through a tear or crack in the tough outer layer. This can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain, weakness, or numbness in the back, legs, or arms. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, but are most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine).

Some common causes of a herniated disc include age-related wear and tear, degenerative disc disease, injury, or trauma. Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing a herniated disc include being overweight, having a physically demanding job, or participating in activities that involve repetitive bending or twisting of the spine.

A physiotherapy treatment plan for a herniated disc typically aims to reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility and flexibility, and prevent further injury. Treatment for a herniated disc may include rest, medication, physiotherapy, or in severe cases, surgery.

Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility and flexibility, and prevent further injury.

Manual therapy techniques can be an effective way to treat a herniated disc. Here are some specific manual therapy techniques that a physiotherapist may use:

Soft tissue massage: This technique involves the application of pressure to the soft tissues around the spine to help reduce pain and stiffness. It can also help to improve blood flow and promote tissue healing.

Joint mobilization: This technique involves gently moving the affected joint to help restore its normal range of motion. This can help to reduce pain and improve flexibility in the spine.
Myofascial release: This technique involves applying sustained pressure to the fascia, which is the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. Myofascial release can help to reduce pain and improve mobility in the spine.