An Overview of Herniated Discs
As we age, we are more prone to health problems. Health issues such as cancer, heart disease and extreme pain are generally considered part of the health risks we face as we age. It is difficult to carry on with your day to day activities when back pains hit you, that's why a lot of Americans struggle with their daily routine when afflicted by back pains.
Back pain is a frequent diagnosis and that's a fact. There are also different kinds of back pains as well as symptoms and treatments. Most cases of back pain are attributed to a herniated disc. According to FamilyDoctor.org, "Herniated discs are most common in the lumbar spine--the part of your backbone between the bottom of your ribs and your hips. Discs are the soft "cushions" between the bones of the spine." When your disc is pushed against a nerve, it begins to bulge and become very uncomfortable. Otherwise known as a "slipped disc," the pressed nerve can elicit pain in the back and leg, as well as numbness. Normally, the more you move, the more painful it becomes. Even the slightest movement from coughing and sneezing can trigger a piercing muscle spasm.
Alternative Treatments For Herniated Disc
If you suffer from a herniated disc, there are several treatments that you can undergo. First and foremost, exercise will significantly help. Stretching can reduce the level of pain; however, you need to get clearance from your physician before even attempting to do this. You may consider other alternatives such as Yoga or Pilates; it improves flexibility as well as blood circulation. Medicine may also be prescribed, as well as a shot in your backbone.
Ineffective? If so, spinal decompression therapy could help. Widely known as the most favorable and non-invasive treatments, spinal decompression therapy can address herniated discs, Sciatica including pinched nerves. The procedure involves lying on a table with a connected strap hooked to a computer. The computer sends the signal that applies pressure to the spine thereby stretching the discs apart enabling the blood and oxygen to flow back to the spine. This is otherwise known as a "vacuum effect," since the pressure creates suction.
Spinal decompression therapy is painless contrary to what others perceive. For most patients, the effect is positive since it eases pain and relieves muscle spasm. The therapy triggers the disc to stretch and become flexible which marks the start of the healing stage. This treatment requires the patient to attend 4-5 sessions per week for a minimum of twenty sessions and a lot cheaper than spinal decompression surgery. Majority of patients who undergo the procedure feel a lot better after as if they have been cured.
The case of herniated discs is a common problem for millions of people worldwide. It can be a disappointing experience since it can hamper your mobility and your normal routine. Light activities such as walking your dog in the park becomes tedious and not to mention very painful. With alternative treatments such as yoga or spinal decompression therapy, herniated discs no longer have to be your death sentence. These treatments will alleviate the discomfort, minimize the constant symptoms and bring back your confidence, allowing you to truly focus on what is important. Trust us, pain can be eradicated.
