Prolapsed Disc Treatment In Manchester

Prolapsed discs can cause severe back pain due to the pressure they place on your nerves. It is important that you seek physio treatment for a prolapsed disc in order to strengthen the muscles around the problem area and prevent it from occurring again.

 

What is a prolapsed disc?

A prolapsed disc, also called a ‘’slipped’’ or herniated disc, is when the soft cushion tissue between the bones (intervertebral discs) in your spine is pushed outwards creating pressure, more often than not, on your nerves.

A herniated disc can occur in any part of your spine, most commonly in the lower back. It can cause irritation to the nerves, which can result in pain, numbness, pins & needles or weakness in the arm (if in the neck) or leg (if in the lower back).

 

Prolapsed Disc Facts

• Discs are composed of a soft gel-like centre and a tough outer lining
  
• The onset of pain with a herniated disc may occur suddenly or it may be announced by a tearing or snapping sensation in the spine
  
• Most back pain is RARELY caused by something serious
  

 

Prolapsed Disc Causes

• Age:
  
  • Discs lose flexibility and elasticity the older we get
    
  • Weak ligaments which can lead to tears
    
• Sudden movement
  
• Lifting large, heavy objects incorrectly
  
• Twisting movement
  
• Traumatic event – fall or blow to the back (rare)
  
• Whiplash
  

 

Prolapsed Disc Symptoms

• Localized pain
  
• Radiating pain down the arm or leg
  
• Numbness or tingling down the limb
  
• Sharp/shooting pain
  
• Pain worse in flexion (e.g. putting on shoes or driving)
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Pain in the buttock (pressure on the sciatic nerve)
  
• Decrease range of motion (due to pain)
  
• Drop foot when compressing on specific nerves
  

 

Prolapsed Disc Treatment at Total Restore

Physiotherapy plays a major role in the treatment of a herniated/prolapsed disc. Physiotherapists can help you with pain relief, an exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the area affected and can help prevent this from occurring again in the future.

Here at Total Restore Physiotherapy, we have plenty of experience with this pathology. We offer a thorough assessment to get down to the route of your problem, we can help diagnose your injury and be hands on during treatment sessions. We also make sure to rehabilitate you outside our clinical hours by making you a home exercise program made specifically for you and targeting your needs. We will give you advice and education that is based on experience and research evidence.

 

What treatment can I expect at Total Restore?

• Education & advice
  
• Postural analysis and advice
  
• Hot & cold therapy
  
• Electrotherapy
  
• “Hands on” treatment
  
  • Mobilizations
    
  • Deep/Soft tissue release
    
• Acupuncture
  
• Exercises in session and as a home exercise program
  
• Prevention advice and treatment plan
  

Self-help advice:

• Rest in a pain free position – do NOT push yourself too hard
  
• Keep active – Walk around and keep moving
  
• Take painkillers if necessary
  
• Exercises in to back extension
  
• If lifting, lift from your legs not your back
  
• Heat – Enjoy a nice hot bath
  
• Ask your partner or family member to massage your lower back to reduce back spasms
  

 

Get In Touch

If you are suffering from a prolapsed disc and physiotherapy, then call our team on 0161 833 3008 or or send an email to info@totalrestore.co.uk. We are highly experienced in working with patients that suffer from this condition and wil create a personalised plan to get you back to your best and out of pain as quick as possible.