Common Spinal Disc Problems
The common types of spinal disc problems are:
Ruptured disc
A ruptured disc, also known as a slipped disc or herniated disc, may seem like the disc itself has moved from its position. However, that is not the case. Ruptured disc means that there is a crack in the outer shell of the disc, which lets the soft jelly-like material ooze out. When this jelly-like content comes in contact with the outer structure, it causes pain and change nerve function.
Sciatica
Pain that runs from the spine to the buttocks and down the back of the leg is Sciatica and is nerve pain from the sciatic nerve. The spinal cord has the ability to move in the spinal column; however, if a bulging disc slips out into the spinal, it can press against a spinal nerve and cause pain.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease comes naturally with age when one or more disks in the vertebrae break down and cause pain. The pain may radiate to the legs or cause numbness. The purpose of the discs between the vertebrae is to give protection by absorbing shocks and allow bending and flexing. With time, the discs become worn and do not protect as they used to.
Symptoms
Symptoms for spinal disc problems can vary according to the location and severity of the pain. Most common spinal disc symptoms are:
- Immense pain on sitting for a long time or bending.
- Pain radiating towards arms or legs
- Discomfort with the slightest activities like sneezing or coughing.
- Numb arms or legs
- Back pain
Natural Treatment of Disc Problems
Precautions and Self-Care
To stay cautious and treat your disc problem faster, the patient must take measures for extra care.
- Do not sit for long periods as it could put a strain on your back.
- Try not to lift heavy weights and objects
- Avoid movements like twisting or bending; it can increase pressure on the disk.
- While walking, sitting, and standing, pay attention to your posture.
- Include back strengthening workouts in your regular habit
- Flexibility exercises can help reduce pain and reduce muscle tension.
- You must work on strengthening your abdomen. Strong stomach muscles will help support back muscles — people who work on their abdomen strength experience lesser back pains.
- Yoga is a healthy activity for your back health and is also recommended by practitioners to build up back strength.
