Service Details
Disc Related Disorder
- Disc Related Disorder
First line of treatment, if you have recently had a slip disc
Immediately after having an episode of PIVD, care should be taken to:
- Stop the offending /painful movements and activities
- Lying on your back with feet on a chair & knees at 90 degree angle can sometime be quite comfortable for the back.
- Apply a cold pack at least 4-5 times a day for 10 minutes at time
- See a health care provider (Physiotherapist/orthopedic) to assess the causes and understand your pain clinically
What are the treatment options for Prolapsed disc?
Treatment of a PIVD depends on the level of severity and discomfort you are facing and how far the disc has slipped out of its place. Usually the line of treatment includes:
- Local pain relief: Muscle relaxants or analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs under the ortho prescription can be useful.
- Physiotherapy – Once the initial inflammation has settled, an appropriate physiotherapy program can relieve the pain. A Physiotherapist will also prescribe an exercise program that strengthens the core and other involved structures.
- Surgery – Severe nerve entrapments may require minor surgeries like micro discectomy.
Tips to manage Prolapsed disc at home
In spite of the line of treatment you choose for slipped disc, you still need to consider the following tips to manage PIVD better:
- Sit for only short period of time
– Your back wants movement and sitting in a chair for an extended period of time puts your back into a loaded flexed position, which your spine will not like. Try to change positions every 30-40 minutes by standing up, going for a little walk, or grabbing a glass of water. While you are sitting for short periods, you want to make sure you sit with good posture and proper lumbar (lower back) support.
- Apply heat to the affected area
By using heat you are helping to decrease muscle spasm and improve blood flow through the body. Try using a hot water bottle for 10 minutes or as often as required. Just be sure to place something between your skin and the heat pack to prevent any skin burns.
- Find a comfortable sleeping position
It is important to sleep with proper support so if you like to sleep on your side, place a pillow between your legs to take off any extra pressure through your hips and lower back. If you prefer sleeping on your back, place a pillow or rolled up towel underneath your knees so they are propped up allowing your lumbar spine to relax in a neutral position. These small modifications can help ease any pressure on your spine
- Healthy exercise lifestyle
Most importantly, continue your exercise program as a part of maintenance and do regular follow ups with your physiotherapist.