Dealing with a herniated disc can be a painful and debilitating experience, hindering your ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life to the fullest. Fortunately, physical therapy can help to alleviate pain and promote long-term spinal health and mobility. Whether you’re taking the first step on your journey to recovery or seeking more effective strategies to manage your symptoms, our expert Hainesport, NJ, team at Breakthru Physical Therapy near West Hampton, New Jersey, is here to help.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, often called a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner gel of the disc escapes through a tear in the tougher outer exterior. This condition can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. While herniated discs can occur anywhere in the spine, they are most common in the lower back and the neck.
The symptoms of a herniated disc often include:
- Intense pain in the arms, buttocks, or legs
- Numbness or tingling in the body parts served by the affected nerves
- Weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerves impacts your ability to hold or lift items
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy offers a non-invasive and effective approach to managing and alleviating the pain associated with herniated discs. At Breakthru, we believe in patient-centered care, which means you actively participate in your recovery. We listen to your concerns, understand your lifestyle, and utilize a variety of techniques tailored to each individual’s condition and pain level, including:
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: These exercises are designed to improve the support and flexibility of the spine. By stretching, you can increase the range of motion and decrease tension in the muscles surrounding the spine. Strengthening exercises target the muscles that support the spine, including the back, abdominal, and leg muscles. This can help maintain proper posture and alignment, reducing the strain on the spinal discs.
- Core Stabilization: Core stabilization exercises focus on strengthening the muscles of the abdomen, back, and pelvis, which together provide a solid support system for the spine. Strengthening these muscles helps maintain good posture, reduce the load on the spinal discs, and improve overall balance and stability. This is crucial for individuals with herniated discs, as a strong core can alleviate the pressure on the spine, reducing pain and preventing further injury.
- Traction: Traction therapy involves applying a force to stretch and decompress the spine, which can help reduce the pressure on herniated discs and lead to reduced pain and improved mobility. Traction can be performed manually by a physical therapist or using mechanical devices. By gently stretching the spine, traction can create more space between the vertebrae, which helps retract the herniated material and decreases the impingement of nerves.
- Manual Therapy: Manual therapy encompasses a variety of hands-on techniques used to improve movement and reduce pain in the affected area. Techniques may include massages, mobilization, and manipulation. These techniques are particularly beneficial for providing immediate relief of symptoms and improving the spine’s and surrounding structures’ overall function.
Let’s Work Together
With a focus on individualized care, the latest treatment techniques, and a compassionate team, Breakthru Physical Therapy is dedicated to helping you overcome pain and return to the activities you love. If you’re in West Hampton, NJ, and struggling with the pain and discomfort of a herniated disc, contact our Hainesport, NJ, location today at 609.997.6112 or schedule an appointment online to start your journey to recovery today!
