What is herniated disc and what triggers it?
A disc becomes herniated when it is pressed against nerve endings. This pressure can produce extreme pain leading to numbness and stinging feeling. While there are dozens of different causes, a herniated disc usually derives from old age. Age is one contributory factor that weakens the discs in our spine causing it to lose some of its cushion. The effect is that the disc may be subjected to tear, forcing the nucleus to push through and end up putting pressure on the nerves. Sport injuries and improper lifting of heavy objects are some of the causes why people experience herniated disc at least once in their lifetime .
What are the associated signs?
Those with herniated disc experience pain in their back and legs. The pressure applied on the nerve seem to cause tingling, numbness, shooting pain and sometimes muscle spasms.
Is there a way to stop it from recurring?
Although the occurrence is inevitable, you can minimize the possibility of sustaining an injury. Be sure to stretch daily, exercise properly and most importantly, avoid smoking. Such unhealthy habits increases the risk of disc degeneration. If you lift heavy objects, pay attention to your posture. Make sure that you use your knees rather than your back.
How is a herniated disc treated?
The most effective treatment for a herniated disc is spinal decompression therapy. Fortunately, this treatment is non-surgical, non-invasive and definitely, a lot cheaper than most procedures. The treatment process highlights the application of pressure to your spine. The procedure entails stretching the discs to allow the blood supply and other important nutrients to circulate into the spine. The disc is then able to gain flexibility and begin to heal, alleviating muscle spasms. Spinal decompression therapy is perfect for a herniated disc because the treatment itself is pain-free. The procedure requires you to lie on a table and have to be hooked to a strap which is the source of pressure to your spine. While 4-5 sessions are required per week for up to twenty sessions, patients find that spinal decompression therapy gives them a second chance at life. They can actually focus on more important things, rather than being stuck on the couch in debilitating pain. At last, a reliable treatment is available.
