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Understanding Slipped Disc
A slipped disc, also known as a herniated disc, occurs when one of the discs that sit between the bones of the spine is damaged and presses on the nerves.
Common symptoms include:
Pain and Numbness: Often on one side of the body, which may extend to the arms or legs.
Muscle Weakness: Affected muscles may weaken, impacting mobility or grip strength.
Tingling Sensations: A “pins and needles” feeling in the affected area.
Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in bending or twisting the spine.
Despite the potential for significant impact on daily activities, there are effective non-surgical treatment options available that can alleviate symptoms for many individuals.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Slipped Disc
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help manage slipped disc symptoms. Tailored exercises strengthen the back muscles and improve posture, significantly alleviating pain and promoting healing.
Pain Management Medications
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, muscle relaxants may also be recommended to ease muscle spasms.
Coreflex Injections
Coreflex injections involve injecting a combination of anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxant and anaesthetic into the painful area to reduce inflammation.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy Therapy uses injections of a concentration of a patient’s platelets to stimulate and accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints, thus providing pain relief and promoting healing in the spinal area.
Radio-Frequency Therapy
Radio-frequency therapy uses energy waves to heat a small area of nerve tissue, decreasing pain signals from that specific area.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy applies low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes to the surface of the body. The therapy is believed to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.
Non-surgical treatments offer a viable option for many individuals experiencing slipped disc symptoms, focusing on pain relief, healing, and long-term spine health.
When to Consider Surgery
Surgery for a slipped disc is generally considered only after non-surgical treatments have failed to relieve symptoms, or if there is worsening nerve damage and pain that impacts daily activities. Indications for surgery may include:
Persistent Pain: Pain that does not improve with conservative treatments over some time.
Nerve Damage: Signs include increasing weakness, loss of sensation, or problems with coordination.
Cauda Equina Syndrome: A rare but serious condition that requires immediate surgical intervention.
The decision to undergo surgery depends on the individual’s specific symptoms, the severity of the condition, and their overall health.
Conclusion
Most individuals with a slipped disc can find significant relief through non-surgical treatment options like physical therapy, medications, and innovative treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy.
It’s essential for patients to actively participate in their recovery by following their treatment plan and consulting with their sports medicine specialist to adjust their approach as needed. For persistent symptoms or severe cases, surgery might be considered as a last resort.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a slipped disc, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. Consult our sports medicine specialist for a personalised consultation to explore the most effective treatment options tailored to your condition and lifestyle.
