In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about prolapsed discs and the most effective ways to treat them, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
Millions of people throughout the world suffer from a prolapsed disc, also called a herniated disc or slipped disc. The condition arises when the outer ring of one of the spine’s intervertebral discs is broken or compromised, allowing the interior gel-like material to push through. Significant pain and discomfort may result from this illness, limiting patient activity and independence. In many cases, individuals living with a prolapsed disc undergo a challenging journey of managing their symptoms, often searching for effective treatment methods to alleviate their suffering. Physical therapy, pain management strategies, and sometimes surgical options are pursued, all while navigating the emotional toll of chronic pain. This situation can lead to a painful arc thematic exploration of resilience and adaptation, as patients seek to reclaim their lives amidst ongoing discomfort.
These cushiony intervertebral discs sit between each vertebra in the spine and serve as shock absorbers, allowing the spine to flex and remain stable. When a full intervertebral disc protrudes, it puts pressure on the nerves in the area, which can cause shooting pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
The deterioration of discs with age, poor lifting techniques, chronic stress, and obesity are just a few of the risk factors for developing a prolapsed disc. Knowing the background of this illness is important for reducing its negative effects and making the most of treatment options.
This article will provide in-depth information about slipped discs, disc prolapse, lumbar disc herniation, and lumbar spine/thoracic spine/cervical spine damage, including their causes, typical slipped disc symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment methods. In order to manage and overcome the difficulties associated with a prolapsed disc, it is crucial to arm oneself with knowledge regarding the problem.
Table of Contents
- How do you fix a prolapsed disc?
- How serious is a prolapsed disc?
- Can a prolapsed disc be repaired?
- What is the fastest way to heal a prolapsed disc?
- Is walking good for a prolapsed disc?
- What is the main cause of prolapsed disc?
- Prolotherapy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Case Studies
- ProHealth Clinic Info
- Author Bio
- References
How do you fix a prolapsed disc?
The goal of treating a prolapsed disc is to alleviate discomfort, decrease inflammation, and speed healing. The prolapse, the patient’s general health, and the patient’s medical history are all factors that can affect the course of treatment. The following are some of the most typical treatments for a prolapsed disc:
Conservative Treatment for Herniated Disc
When treating a prolapsed disc, conservative methods are typically tried first. Pain and inflammation can be controlled using these non-invasive techniques. If you have slipped discs in the spinal cord involving the sciatic nerve (commonly affected nerve), relieving pressure on it by resting, avoiding strenuous activities, and keeping your posture in check will help lessen your pain. Pain relievers and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory meds) available without a prescription may be suggested.
Physical Therapy for Slipped Disc
When it comes to healing, physical therapy is essential. A professional physical therapist can create a regimen of stretches and exercises specifically for the injured area, helping to restore mobility and strength without aggravating the disc. Reducing the likelihood of future disc problems, physical therapy can also help with posture and body mechanics.
Heat and Cold Therapy
Pain and swelling can be temporarily alleviated by applying heat or ice to the area. In addition to relieving pain and swelling, heat therapy can also help relax muscles and promote blood flow to the area.
Epidural Steroid Injections
A doctor may recommend an epidural injection or steroid injections if the patient’s severe nerve pain cannot be managed with more conservative treatment options. To alleviate pain and inflammation, corticosteroid medicine is injected into the epidural area surrounding the damaged nerve root.
Surgery
Surgery may be considered when non-invasive therapies fail to alleviate symptoms or when a prolapsed disc causes substantial nerve compression, resulting in muscle weakness or bowel/bladder malfunction. Discectomy (the removal of the injured disc material), laminotomy (the widening of the spinal canal to relieve pressure from slipped disc), and spinal fusion (the stabilization of the spine using metal hardware) are all possible surgical procedures for a prolapsed disc.
The best course of treatment for each patient can only be determined after discussion with a trained medical expert. Treatment for a prolapsed disc requires careful consideration of the patient’s condition and medical history to meet the patient’s individual requirements and the unique problems of the condition.
How serious is a prolapsed disc?
The severity of a prolapsed disc depends on several factors, including the size of the herniation, the location of the herniated disc, and the state of the patient’s general health. Some people may have mild discomfort that may be treated with over-the-counter medications, while others may have more serious consequences that need emergency medical care. Recognizing the possible severity of a prolapsed disc is important for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Mild Cases
The symptoms may be relatively mild and intermittent in cases where the disc prolapse is minor. Individuals may experience occasional back pain or discomfort episodes that can be managed with rest, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain medications. These mild cases often resolve within a few weeks (six weeks) with appropriate health care.
Moderate Cases
The likelihood that symptoms will persist and worsen with increasing prolapsed disc severity is proportional to the degree of the condition. Pain that spreads across the body, tingling or numbness in the limbs, and even weakness are all possible symptoms of a moderate case. Pain may be made worse by physical exercise, making normal life difficult. Moderate cases can still be managed with physical therapy and other conservative therapies.
Severe Cases
Extreme muscle pain, weakening, and a loss of sensation can result from a prolapsed disc because the inner gel-like material presses on the spinal nerves. Compression of a nerve can cause weakness in the muscles used for walking or controlling bodily functions like urination and defecation. These conditions demand urgent treatment and emergency medical intervention since untreated nerve injury might be permanent.
Rare Complications Involving Sciatic Nerve
In extremely unusual cases, a prolapsed disc can cause cauda equina syndrome. Compression of the spinal cord and its nerve roots demands immediate medical attention. Saddle anesthesia (a loss of sensation in the inner thighs and buttocks) and bowel or bladder problems may also be symptoms. Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency that must be treated surgically immediately to prevent permanent brain and nerve damage.
Can a prolapsed disc be repaired?
In most cases, a prolapsed disc cannot be fully repaired but can often be effectively managed. The body’s natural healing mechanisms can reabsorb the herniated disc material over time. However, medical interventions can be used to relieve symptoms and facilitate healing.
Spinal cord surgical options
Surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments fail or if the prolapsed disc causes severe nerve compression. One common surgical procedure is a discectomy, where the protruding disc material is removed to alleviate pressure on the nerve. Other surgical options include a laminectomy, which involves removing part of the vertebral bone to create more space for the affected nerve, and spinal fusion, where two or more vertebrae are fused together to stabilize the spine. These procedures aim to provide long-term relief and improve overall function.
Minimally invasive techniques
Advancements in medical technology have led to minimally invasive procedures or non surgical treatment options, such as endoscopic discectomy, which reduce tissue damage, scarring, and recovery time. These techniques involve using small incisions and specialized tools to access and treat the affected area. They have shown promising results in terms of pain relief and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgeries.
What is the fastest way to heal a prolapsed disc?
In addition to surgical options, non-surgical approaches can help speed up the healing process for a prolapsed disc. One crucial factor in the speed of recovery is early diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage to the disc and allow for more effective healing.
If you suspect you have a prolapsed disc or experience symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention can prevent the condition from worsening and speed up healing. The non-surgical approaches may include physical therapy, targeted exercises, and pain management techniques such as medication or epidural injections.
Physical therapy or manual therapy can help strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility, reducing pressure on the prolapsed disc. Targeted exercises, such as core strengthening and stretching, can also relieve and promote healing. Pain management techniques, like medication or epidural injections, can help alleviate discomfort while the disc heals. Working closely with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses individual needs and goals is crucial.
Is walking good for a prolapsed disc?
Yes, walking can be beneficial for a prolapsed disc. It helps to improve blood flow and oxygenation to the affected area, aiding the healing process. However, starting with shorter walks and gradually increasing intensity and duration is important to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
Walking aids in maintaining flexibility and preventing stiffness in the spine. Additionally, walking helps strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, reducing the risk of further injury and promoting better posture. It also promotes weight management, alleviating pressure on the affected disc and providing long-term relief.
What is the main cause of prolapsed disc?
Degenerative Changes
Our bodies undergo a series of changes as we age, and the spine is no exception. One of the primary causes of prolapsed discs is degenerative changes that occur in the intervertebral discs over time. These intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, cushioning the spine and allowing for flexibility. However, these discs lose their water content with age and become less supple. This process is known as disc degeneration.
As the intervertebral discs degenerate, they become more prone to wear and tear, making them vulnerable to herniation. The outer layer of the disc, known as the annulus fibrosus, weakens, and the soft gel-like center, called the nucleus pulposus, can bulge or rupture through the weakened areas. A bulging disc or herniation of the disc material can pressure the surrounding nerves, causing pain, numbness, and other symptoms associated with a prolapsed disc. The nucleus pulposus leaks causing severe lower back pain and awkward bending. Symptoms depend on the extent of damage to spinal discs and nerve function.
Lifestyle Factors
Apart from age-related degeneration, lifestyle choices play a significant role in developing prolapsed discs. Modern sedentary lifestyles, characterized by prolonged periods of sitting, can weaken the supporting structures of the spine, including the muscles and ligaments. Weakening of the supportive structures due to a physically demanding job can lead to increased stress on the intervertebral discs, making them more susceptible to herniation.
Improper lifting techniques and weight bearing sports are other common lifestyle-related causes of slipped discs. Lifting heavy objects with a rounded back instead of using the legs to lift can place undue strain on the spine and discs. This can lead to sudden disc herniation or contribute to the gradual wear and tear of the discs over time. Furthermore, obesity can be a significant risk factor for prolapsed discs. Excess body weight places additional pressure on the spine, especially the lower back, increasing the load on the intervertebral discs. Over time, this increased pressure can contribute to the discs’ breakdown and subsequent herniation.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat prolapsed discs.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to repair the damage and help prolapsed discs.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of prolapsed discs, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a prolapsed disc to heal?
Healing typically takes 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Following the prescribed treatment plan strictly can accelerate recovery and prevent recurrence.
Can a prolapsed disc heal without surgery?
Yes, most prolapsed discs can be managed without surgery using a combination of physical therapy, lifestyle changes, pain management, and regenerative treatments like Prolotherapy.
Is it safe to exercise with a prolapsed disc?
Yes, targeted exercises prescribed by a healthcare professional can strengthen supporting muscles and improve spinal stability. However, high-impact or improper movements should be avoided to prevent worsening the disc herniation.
What are the warning signs of severe prolapsed disc complications?
Severe symptoms include loss of bowel or bladder control, severe leg weakness, or numbness in the saddle area. These require immediate medical attention.
Case Studies
- Case Study 1: A 45-year-old office worker with lumbar disc herniation underwent 6 sessions of Prolotherapy combined with physical therapy. After 10 weeks, pain reduced by 80% and mobility improved significantly.
- Case Study 2: A 32-year-old athlete experienced sciatic pain from a lumbar prolapsed disc. Post-Prolotherapy treatment and targeted rehabilitation, he returned to full sports activity within 8 weeks without recurrence.
- Case Study 3: A 60-year-old patient with chronic low back pain due to disc degeneration received Prolotherapy and ergonomic advice. Pain levels dropped from 9/10 to 2/10 over 12 weeks, greatly improving daily functioning.
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating Prolapsed Disc, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with Prolapsed Disc and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-eaton-4338225b/
References
- NIH. Herniated Disc. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/
- Mayo Clinic. Herniated disc. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095
- WebMD. Herniated Disc Symptoms, Causes, Treatment. https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/guide/herniated-disc-symptoms-and-treatments
- ProHealth Clinic. Spinal Disc Clinic. https://prohealthclinic.co.uk/spinal-disc-clinic/