HERNIATED DISC (SLIPPED DISC)

Herniated discs rather known as slipped discs or even prolapsed discs are serious conditions that can affect many people around the world regardless of age or gender.  A slipped disc occurs when the jelly like structure called the disc begins to compress the spinal nerves.

Ever wondered why we have discs and what they do? Without discs humans wouldn't be able to bend backwards, forwards or in any given direction. Discs allow flexibility and also act as shock obsorbers for the back. Discs are made up of strong rubber like tissue mainly forming the outer layer of the disc known as the Anulus Fibrosis. The inner portion of the disc is called the nucleus pulposus. The secrect to all disc prolapses is the nucleus pulposus. 

Although it is called a slipped disc, in fact the disc does not move from its original position, the key element is the shifting of the nucleus pulposus within the disc. If you refer to the first image it is noticable that the disc body is still in the same position but the only difference is the shifting of the nucleus pulposus from the inner certer of the disc body to the outer section possibly causing nerve compression causing radiating pain either in the upper or lower extremities. 

The reason for the dispositioning of the nucleus can be caused by several factors including;

1. Bad sitting posture

2. Incorrect lifting methods
3. Heavy labor
4. Following accidents, or fall injuries.

Most people ask the question, can it be repaired without surgical intervention? The answer is most definitely yes. There are many modern and afordable techniques developed over the past years that can help relieve pain and correct the position of the nucleus pulposus which in most cases leads to 80% pain relief in most patients.

The most noticable technique known is the Mckenzie treatment method used by many physiotherapists including our highly trained therapists.

To understand further on the mckenzie treatment method feel free to contact our specialised physiotherapists via our CONTACT US page for further details.