When it comes to treating a herniated disc, the goal of each treatment method is to assist in relieving the pain as well as other symptoms caused by the herniated disc. For this goal to be achieved, the treatment plan of each patient is individualized depending on the symptoms and the source and severity of the pain. Let's look at three methods used for the treatment of a herniated disc.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Chiropractic care can help patients with symptoms related to a herniated disc. First, the physician must review your medical history and perform a physical examination as well as neurological and orthopedic tests.
Chiropractors use spinal manipulation, also referred to as spinal adjustments, to treat patients with herniated discs. Also, a chiropractor can use other techniques like therapeutic exercises and manual therapy to ease symptoms related to a herniated disc. However, these techniques are individualized, and they vary from one patient to another.
The details of a patient's treatment plan depend on the patient's pain, overall health, activity level, and also what the physician believes is best for the patient. Just like any other treatment method, always inquire to know the chiropractic treatment the doctor recommends and why. This is because it's always good to understand what the chiropractor will do and how it will help in relieving your pain. Chiropractic services are effective and safe for patients with herniated discs.
MASSAGE
Regular massages can help in reducing chronic pain caused by herniated discs. Mostly, massage involves kneading, manipulation, and stroking of back tissues, which help in increasing blood flow. As a result, more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to your muscles. The increased blood flow also helps in removing the waste products that might have collected over time.
Even though massage isn't an established treatment method for herniated discs, it is very safe and doesn't have any side effects. But massage might not be the correct treatment option for patients suffering from skin infections, deep-vein thrombosis, arthritis, osteoporosis, or open wounds near or in the part being massaged.
Before starting this treatment program, it is important to notify your practitioner in case you have other health conditions apart from the pain caused by the herniated disc. In addition, it is good to understand that massage is mostly effective when applied as a complementary treatment—meaning you should combine it with oral medicine.
ACUPUNCTURE
This treatment method was first used by the Chinese. They believe that everybody has an energy called chi, and when it is unbalanced or blocked, it can cause illness or pain. Chinese acupuncturists insert very thin needles into particular body points in order to set the Chi channels, also referred to as meridians, free. These needles are left in the body for 20 to 40 minutes.
It is said that acupuncture causes endorphins, which are pain relievers produced by your body naturally, to be released to your blood stream. Their release, in turn, helps in reducing your awareness of pain caused by the herniated disc.
