Spinal discs are responsible for support, dynamic movement and act as shock absorbers of the spine. A slipped disc is caused by leaking fluid from the vertebrae, causing nerve compression. It is also referred to as aprolapsedorherniated disc. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment aims to:
Vertebral discs within your spine act as shock absorbers, and are responsible for movement and giving support. A gel-like fluid can be found between these discs; however, they can lose fluid over time, leaving the discs prone to herniating (bulging out).
A slipped discdoesn’t actually slip out from your spinal structure– rather, the soft inner part of the disc bulges out (herniates) through a weakness in the outer part of the disc. Hence, a slipped disc can also be called aprolapsedorherniateddisc. This bulged disc may press on other parts of the spine or cause inflammation, causing irritation or pressure on nerves within the spinal column.
A slipped (prolapsed) disc can occur in the three spinal regions:
General wear and tear of the spine over time can cause the fluid loss between the spinal discs. If the spine is placed under pressure, this can also cause disc herniation (bulging) which can push against spinal nerves. Men typically get slipped discs more than women.
The most common causes of a slipped (prolapsed) disc include:
Someone with a slipped (prolapsed) disc may be informed by a medical professional that a degenerative disc disease is causing disc herniation – this can be misleading and alarming as degenerative disc conditions arenot usually progressive or chronic.
If you think you have a slipped (prolapsed) disc, it is important to visit your doctor so they can rule out other possible conditions and give a diagnosis. A GP or physiotherapist may also refer you to get a scan (X-ray or MRI) to determine the exact location and severity of the herniation. Physiotherapy treatment is the best course of action to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a treatment plan to best fit your recovery goals through:
Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to usespinal support (braces) or to improve gait and posture throughcustom foot orthoticsand othersupportive footwearoptions.
Are you in pain caused by a slipped disc? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
