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Slipped discs are a commonly feared yet overly self-diagnosed ailment, and with this in mind, I thought it’d be good to clear up a few things about what a slipped disc is. Learn more about the symptoms of slipped discs, including how the injury can happen and the treatment options available to you.<\/p>\n
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First things first – the anatomy of a slipped disc. The “discs” sit between the vertebrae of the spine, helping you to move freely and help reduce the strain on the bones. The term slipped disc evokes an unwelcome image of something actually slipping through your spine, which isn\u2019t actually the case. In reality, a slipped disc happens when the soft tissue inside the disc bulges out from its inside case.<\/p>\n
The best (if slightly garish) way to think about it is to imagine pressing down on a jam doughnut. A slipped disc happens when the pressure gets too much and the “jam” spurts out. The weakest part of the disc is at the back, which means that leaning forward can put a great deal of pressure on this part of the disc. In turn, this is why the biggest risk activities for developing a slipped disc can be as benign as sitting at a desk or lifting a few heavy objects improperly.<\/p>\n
With this in mind, people often fear getting slipped discs as it can seem like there’s not much you can do to avoid them. The truth is only 2% of adults will ever suffer a slipped disc, and what’s more, the symptoms are usually obvious. The main differences come in how the pain starts and then gets worse.<\/p>\n
The first sign of a slipped can disc can coincide with a sudden movement, heavy landing in a slumped position or even a sneeze. Most people feel a twinge at first before a more profound pain (particularly in the legs) later. The usual symptoms can include:<\/p>\n
At this point, it’s important to note a few factors related to lower back pain<\/a>, as people can sometimes experience this pain for a number of other reasons. If you have any of the following symptoms, phone your GP immediately, or, if you can\u2019t get an appointment, ask for Ed at the Manchester Wellbeing Clinic or seek another healthcare professional for further advice.<\/p>\n If you do have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important not to panic and remember that disease and infections account for less than 1% of the causes of lower back pain.<\/p>\n Concerned about these symptoms? Call now on 0161 209 3980<\/em><\/p>\n <\/em><\/p>\n Treatments for slipped discs will vary from person to person. A minor slipped disc can be easily managed by taking professional advice on correct posture and movement. The more severe cases, which can include leg and glute pain along with pins and needles, are more commonly treated by an osteopath.<\/p>\n Initially, I will work to reduce the pain and inflammation around the slipped disc. This is where dry needling or acupuncture<\/a>, alongside other techniques that involve work on the spine, will be applied. When the leg symptoms have decreased, we will look to reduce the risk of recurrence by adjusting the spine so there is less pressure on the disc. This process is explained further in the following video:<\/p>\n\n
How To Treat A Slipped Disc<\/h2>\n
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