Living with a Herniated Disc: Care and Prevention Tips

Introduction

Persistent pain that makes you even more reluctant to move around is the common symptom of a herniated disc. But don't just lie down; if you don't move, your muscles will stiffen, and the pain will be worse when you get up. The key to managing the herniated disc is to stay physically active and stretch your body as advised. However, consulting an expert orthopedic specialist and getting personalized care advice can help you the most.

Have you been diagnosed with this condition and are looking for the best herniated disc treatment in Dwarka? Dr. Ishwar Bohra, with years of experience, is a trusted choice. Scroll down to explore effective care and prevention tips for herniated discs.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated (slipped or bulging) disc is a condition that happens when the soft, jelly-like tissue present in the disc of the spine starts pushing against the hard bone and may leak out of its outer ring. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the surrounding areas, such as the neck, back, or legs. It usually heals on its own within four to six weeks. However, treatment becomes necessary if symptoms persist even after this period.

What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?

The following are the symptoms associated with the herniated disc:

What are the Risk Factors of Herniated Disc?

The following are the factors that increase the risk of a herniated disc:

• Weight: Excessive body weight can put extra pressure on the discs of the lower back.
• Occupation: Back problems are more common among people whose jobs require them to be physically active. Another risk factor for herniated discs is engaging in repetitive motions such as lifting, tugging, pushing, bending sideways, or twisting.
• Genetics: Some people inherit this disorder from their parents.
• Smoking: Smoking reduces the oxygen supply to discs, causing them to weaken and break down more easily.
• Frequent driving: Long driving periods and the vibration due to motor vehicle engines can put stress on the spine.
• Being sedentary: Try to stay physically active if you have a sedentary job.

What are the Complications of Herniated Disc?

Immediately consult a doctor if you have any of the following complications:

• If the symptoms are worsening, you should seek medical attention. As your discomfort, numbness, or weakness worsens, it can become more difficult to live your everyday life as usual.
• You should seek medical attention if you experience bowel or bladder issues, such as incontinence or the inability to urinate.
• If you experience saddle anesthesia, which is a progressive loss of sensation in the areas that would come into contact with a saddle, it is important to seek medical attention. These areas include the inner thighs, the back of the leg, and the area surrounding the rectum.

What are the Care and Prevention Tips for the Herniated Disc?

Preventing a disc bulge is not always possible. You can minimize your risk by following lifestyle changes for the herniated disc:

• Follow proper lifting techniques. 
• Avoid waist bending. 
• You should bend your knees while maintaining a straight back. 
• Prefer using strong leg muscles to help support the load.
• Ensure that you are maintaining a weight that is healthy for you because excess weight puts pressure on your lower back.
• Practice correcting your posture. 
• Learn expert tips to improve your posture while walking, sitting, standing, and sleeping. Good posture reduces strain on your spine.
• Include taking stretching breaks in your routine to avoid standing for long.
• Prefer wearing comfortable footwear and avoiding high heels. 
• Stay physically active with expert-recommended herniated disc prevention exercises
• Consider quitting smoking to prevent disc weakening and rupturing

How Can Herniated Disc Rehabilitation Help Patients?

Herniated disc rehabilitation can help patients in the following ways:

• Relieves pain and nerve compression 
• Improves back and neck mobility and flexibility
• Strengthens core and back muscles
• Corrects posture and movement patterns 
• Enhances functional ability and return to daily activities
• Lowers the risk of recurrence 
• Minimises the need for surgery 

What are the Treatment Options for the Herniated Disc?

You may require more advanced herniated disc treatment if your symptoms aren't getting better with home care tips. The following are the treatment options for the herniated disc:

• Medication can be used to manage the symptoms, such as an anti-inflammatory pain reliever for pain or a muscle relaxant to relieve tightened muscles.
• Physical therapy for the herniated disc is a fitness program that helps to relieve pressure on your nerves, loosen tight muscles, and improve blood circulation.
• Spinal injections for pain relief (called an epidural or nerve block) are directly into your spine for long-term pain relief.

Conclusion

Back or neck pain can impede your progress. A herniated disc might worsen if left untreated. This is particularly the case if you continue to engage in the activities that caused it. But you do not need to live this way. Dr. Ishwar Bohra and his expert team are here to help you get moving again.

Get personalised herniated disc treatment in Dwarka from Dr. Ishwar Bohra, the top orthopedic specialist in Delhi. Book your consultation now!

FAQs

Q1: What is the recovery time for a herniated disc?

A: Over-the-counter painkillers can help the majority of people get better. Some people may require spinal injections or herniated disc surgery if symptoms do not improve within weeks.

Q2: When do doctors recommend herniated disc surgery?

A: Doctors recommend herniated disc surgery when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment or worsen over time. It is urgently advised if there is nerve damage or loss of bladder or bowel control.

Q3: What causes a bulging disc?

A: In a herniated disc, the inner "jelly" material seeps out through the opening and puts pressure on the spinal cord. A ruptured disc can cause pressure on surrounding spinal nerves when the material leaks out.