Disc Injuries

About your injury

Disc injuries (prolapse, herniation, slipped disc) occur most commonly in the low back and are a common source of back pain. Repeated, prolonged or excessive bending, lifting and sitting slumped can lead to degeneration of the outer fibres of the disc. This weakness can, in turn, lead to a sudden prolapse of the gel-like fluid in the centre of the disc. When this occurs, the pressure and inflammation from the fluid can irritate the nerves in the low back and cause Sciatica.

How did it happen?

These injuries are usually caused by bending and lifting akwardly. People who sit badly and have poor core stability are more vulnerable than others.

What are the symptoms?

Typical symptoms include low back pain with muscle spasms. Pain is made worse by trivial movements such as brushing teeth, putting shoes and socks on, walking up stairs, sitting for long periods, bending, coughing and sneezing. The pain may be relieved by changing position. If the herniation or prolapse is extensive, nerve root impingement can cause shooting pains, weakness and pins and needles down the leg and in the foot.

What should I do?

• Avoid sitting for long periods
• Avoid low seats with poor back support (sofas and cars in particular)
• Avoid strenuous lifting
• Keep a straight back and bend the knees when bending
• Take regular gentle walks
• Ice the low back using a bag of frozen peas or ice pack wrapped in a tea towel. Do this for 10 minutes every hour
• Take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Nurofen
• Consult an Osteopath for some physical therapy and advice on stretching and strengthening exercises

Contact Us

email jamie@theosteopath.net if you would like to make an appointment.