Non-Surgical Lumbar Hernia Treatment
What is herniated disc and what are its symptoms?
A herniated disc is a condition in which one of the discs in the lumbar spine (lumbar spine) is damaged and protrudes from the spine.
Our spine is made up of a series of bones (vertebrae) stacked on top of each other, and between these bones are discs. These discs act as a kind of "shock absorber" between the vertebrae and keep the spine flexible. Each disc consists of two parts called the annulus fibrosus, which is a hard fibrous tissue on the outside, and the nucleus pulposus, which has a gel-like substance inside.
A herniated disc is a condition in which the annulus fibrosus portion of the discs weakens and the nucleus pulposus protrudes. This can compress the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing pain and other symptoms.
Herniated disc symptoms may include:
1- Low back pain
2- Pain, numbness or tingling in the leg, foot or hip
3- Weakness in standing or difficulty walking
4- Increased pain when sitting, coughing or sneezing
This condition usually develops with age because discs can wear out and weaken over time. However, it can also occur as a result of trauma or injury. Also, being overweight or straining activities such as sitting or lifting heavy can increase the risk.
Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and symptoms and usually include pain management, physical therapy or surgery.
Lumbar hernia is a disease that seriously affects the quality of life. Due to pain and contraction, the person's daily life activities may be disrupted. In addition, additional problems such as contraction and limitation of movement in the lumbar region may occur. With manual therapy, you can find an effective solution to herniated disc without physical therapy or surgery. This treatment helps to reduce contraction and pain by placing the discs (hernia) in their correct place.
A herniated disc usually develops in four stages:
1- The discs start to deteriorate, but the overflow has not yet occurred. However, ruptures may have started.
2- The front wall of the disc begins to rupture and the disc tends outward.
3- The front wall of the disc is completely destroyed and the disc comes out.
4- The integrity of the disc is broken and a part of it may break.
Especially in cases of lumbar hernia in the 1st and 2nd stage, very successful results can be obtained with manual therapy. With this treatment method, the patient's recovery process is very fast and since there is no surgical incision, he can quickly return to his daily life. This treatment is applied manually. While the joint movements are performed by mobilization, the pressure between the two bones is reduced by the traction method. In addition, the correct alignment of the bones is provided by manipulation.
With this traditional treatment method done by hand, 98% success can be achieved. Minor damage to muscles, connective tissues and joints can cause herniated disc due to stress and poor posture. But other factors such as infection, injury, or osteoporosis can also cause low back pain. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the patient's condition in detail and to apply non-surgical treatment methods such as manual therapy. In addition, patients should pay attention to incorrect posture and sitting positions and be conscious about this issue.
The Importance of Physiotherapy in Lumbar Hernia
Physical therapy plays an important role in the treatment of herniated disc. Physical therapy can be an effective approach to manage pain, strengthen lower back and lower back muscles, increase flexibility, and relieve symptoms. Here is the importance of physical therapy in the treatment of herniated disc:
1- Strengthening Muscles: Physical therapy can strengthen the lower back and surrounding muscles. Strong muscles support the spine and can relieve herniated disc symptoms.
2- Flexibility and Mobility: Physical therapy can increase the flexibility of the lumbar region and improve mobility. This can reduce pain and facilitate daily activities.
3- Pain Management: Physical therapy can help manage pain. This may include various techniques such as cold or hot applications, manual therapy, electrical stimulation or ultrasound.
4- Activity Modification: Physiotherapists can teach you how to change your daily activities or exercise routine to help relieve the symptoms of a herniated disc.
Physical therapy is usually part of the treatment for herniated disc, but in severe cases or if symptoms do not respond to conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be required. Your doctor and physical therapist will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
