Man with herniated disc and lower back pain

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is a musculoskeletal condition that causes symptoms such as severe back pain and potential immobility in the spine. This occurs when the shock-absorbing cushion between the vertebrae of your spine shifts position and bulges out from between the bones. A bulging disc irritates and puts pressure on the surrounding nerves, resulting in lower and upper back pain and other symptoms.

You can develop a herniated disc at any point along the spine, but it is most commonly observed in the lower back due to strain or overuse. This condition becomes more prevalent as you age because the spinal discs become dry, less flexible, and more prone to damage.

Individuals who smoke, frequently engage in activities that involve pushing, pulling, or lifting heavy items, and those who are obese or overweight are at the highest risk for this type of injury.

Occupations that inherently involve back strain and are prone to injury include nursing and other medical professions, construction workers, retail workers, and factory workers.

Symptoms and Treatments

Often, herniated disc symptoms come on suddenly and may feel like:

  • Sudden, intense pain in your back
  • Severe, shooting pain down your leg, arm, or buttocks
  • Numbness or tingling in your extremities
  • Weakness or immobility due to pain

If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek an evaluation as soon as possible. Ignoring them can lead to potential nerve damage or the worsening of symptoms without proper treatment or surgery.

At High Line Rehab, we provide a variety of treatments aimed at alleviating pain associated with a herniated disc. Our initial step is to evaluate your symptoms and assess your baseline mobility.

Treatment may include the following treatments and exercises:

  • Manual therapy
  • Exercise program
  • Stretches
  • Shockwave
  • Tecar

The practice has significant success in treating herniated disc pain using innovative treatments such as Shockwave therapy and TECAR. These therapies and treatments help to activate the deep core muscles that support the neck and back, which often yields positive results in 2-3 sessions.

If you’re experiencing pain you believe is due to a herniated disc, call or schedule an appointment with High Line Rehab today.