Many of the signs of a herniated disc are similar to other spinal issues, and you’ll want to be sure you have a herniated disc before having treatment for your symptoms.
How likely are you to have a herniated disc? You’re more likely to develop this issue than you might think — medical research shows that up to 20 in every 1,000 American adults develop a herniated disc annually. Fortunately, you can work with a physical therapist to determine if the signs you’re experiencing match those of a herniated disc. If they do, your therapist can provide effective treatment for this spinal condition.
These are the top signs of a herniated disc
Herniated discs can occur anywhere in your spine, but they’re most common in the neck and lower back. When they happen in the neck, they’re called cervical herniated discs. Lumbar herniated discs is the name given to those that happen in the lower back. No matter where you develop this issue, there will be certain signs that you have a herniated disc. Some of these signs include:
- Pain that runs from your spine into one of your arms or legs.
- Numbness in an arm or leg.
- Unexplained muscle weakness in a leg or arm.
- Pain that gets worse when you move in certain ways.
- Pain that gets worse while you sleep at night.
How can physical therapy help if you have signs of a herniated disc?
A physical therapist is trained to treat many musculoskeletal disorders, including herniated discs. After they confirm you have this issue, they can develop a unique therapy plan intended to reduce your symptoms. A few of the therapy techniques that your plan may include are:
- Therapeutic exercises that gently stretch the muscles near the affected area of your body.
- Myofascial release sessions in which the therapist applies therapeutic pressure and friction to soft tissue around the spine using their hands.
- Aquatic therapy intended to gently decompress the entire spine.
- Ergonomic training designed to help improve your posture and reduce your risk of future disc problems.
Peak Performance offers top-notch physical therapy for herniated discs
Are you experiencing signs of a herniated disc? Our physical therapists at Peak Performance are perfectly placed to help you treat the symptoms of this spinal issue. We offer free screenings that can confirm your symptoms are being caused by a herniated disc. In addition, our team is adept at creating therapy plans that are personalized to each patient’s specific needs. You’ll even be able to get help with your condition from home if you sign up for a virtual therapy session with one of our physical therapists.
Contact us today for more information about all the back problems we can help treat or to schedule an initial appointment.
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