Slipped Disc
A slipped disc also kwon as disc herniation occurs when the soft gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) of a spinal disc push through a tear in the tougher exterior (annulus fibrosus). This can cause pressure on nearby nerves. Slipped disc often seen in lumbar spine followed by cervical spine.
Cause of Slipped Disc:
- Age : Natural degeneration of discs over time can make them more susceptible to herniation.
- Injury : Sudden trauma, such as lifting heavy objects incorrectly, can lead to a slipped disc.
- Repetitive Stress : Frequent heavy lifting or twisting can contribute to disc herniation.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Severe low back pain
- Radicular pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica) if the herniated disc compresses a spinal nerve.
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the legs or feet.
- Muscles spasm
- Difficulty in ambulating
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot
- Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe nerve compression condition
Physiotherapy Managements:
- Joint mobilization or manipulation : To help alleviate pain and improve mobility
- Soft tissue manipulation : To reduce paraspinal muscle spasm
- Traction : To reduce sustained pressure on nerve roots to alleviate symptoms of radiculopathy.
- Exercise therapy : Such as McKenzie exercises by focusing on extension movements to help reduce nerve compression and alleviate pain.
- Pain Management : Modalities like heat, cold, or electrical stimulation may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Postural education and ergonomic advice : Provide guidance on maintaining proper posture during daily activities to reduce strain on the spine.
- Nerve gliding exercise : To reduce nerve tension
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