Can Physical Therapy Help a Herniated Disc?

Have you ever experienced sharp or radiating pain down your arm, leg or buttock? This achy pain could be an indicator of a herniated disc in your neck or back. In an effort to find relief, you might be wondering if physical therapy can help treat the symptoms of a herniated disc, reducing your pain and discomfort.

Thankfully, physical therapy is considered the first line of treatment for those suffering from a herniated disc. Physical therapy regimens can offer significant relief and pave the way to a successful recovery

What is a Herniated Disc

A herniated disc, also known as a bulged, slipped or ruptured disc, refers to a problem with one of the discs that lie between the vertebrae. These small cushions are flat and round with a tough outer layer and act as a shock absorber for the spine. When they become displaced or degenerated, it can press on spinal nerves and lead to severe pain.

Commonly seen in patients between ages 30-50, herniated discs can occur naturally with age (degeneration) or due to a strain or injury which can cause a disc to rupture.

For some, herniated discs can cause pain, weakness or even a loss of sensation in the area of the body to which the nerve travels. This can occur on either side of the spine, depending on how the nerve is affected, but is common in the lumbar spine.

Physical Therapy Can Help to Reduce the Pain

Pain from a herniated disc is usually secondary to an inflammatory response. Fortunately, physical therapy can help to eliminate the inflammation of a herniated disc, and subsequently, the discomfort.

Beginning with an in-depth spinal evaluation, the physical therapist will create a unique treatment plan, which may include, hands-on physical therapy, manual therapeutic techniques, exercises to improve “core” control, ice and heat therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound or stretching. Anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by a physician can also help to reduce inflammation.

Your therapist will also design a specific home exercise program including flexibility, strength stabilization and posture analysis, to address the cause of the symptoms and set you up for success for the next functional level.

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Physical Therapy to Treat Pain from Herniated Discs

In most cases, physical therapy can help relieve pain associated with a herniated disc. Additionally, the proper treatment protocol can help to prevent back and neck pain in the future.

Twin Boro is one of the top spinal physical therapy centers in NJ. Twin Boro utilizes a unique One2Four approach to help patients suffering from herniated discs to find the relief they need. Call the skilled experts at1-732-444-3578 or schedule an appointment to learn more about Twin Boro Physical Therapy in NJ and receive a treatment plan made specifically for you.

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Twin Boro Physical Therapy: Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey

Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey, Twin Boro has provided NJ residents with high quality physical therapy and rehab for over 38 years! It’s our award-winning approach, proven results and reputation that sets us apart. By incorporating the One2Four program into each patient’s program, the latest and most reliable scientific research and techniques are incorporated into effective evidence-based practice. We deliver only the highest standard of care with the unique One2Four approach.

It’s no surprise that Twin Boro Physical Therapy has also been voted the best physical therapy practice in New Jersey by the readers of mycentraljersey.com.