Disc hernias occur when the disc between the vertebrae of the spine is pressed and shaped, altering its impact damping function and can also put pressure on nerve roots, causing pain in other areas of the body. In the case of a lumbar disc hernia, the affected area of the body is the last part of the back, with the most affected spaces, L4 and L5 or L5 and S1.
A herniated disk can be classified as extruded, bulging, or deviated as shown in the following images:
- The herniated disc does not always return to its normal state.
- Especially in more serious situations such as an outgoing or abducted herniated discs.
- And in this case if conservative treatment.
- Performed with physiotherapy sessions for about 2 months.
- Is not enough to relieve pain.
- Your doctor may indicate surgery that involves removing the defective disc and “sticking” the two vertebrae as what.
However, the most common type of hernia, which is protrusion, improves all symptoms with physiotherapy and maintenance by performing bodybuilding exercises such as hydrotherapy or clinical Pilates, for example.
Lumbar hernia may have the following symptoms
Pain can be constant or aggravated when making movements.
Diagnosis of lumbar disc hernia may be made based on symptoms presented and tests such as MRI or CT, requested by your orthopedic doctor or spinal neurosurgeon.
Causes of lumbar disc hernia may be related to structural changes in the spine or accidents, poor posture or dumbbells, for example. The most common is the appearance in people aged 37 to 55, mainly in people with very weak and overweight abdominal muscles.
Treatment of lumbar disc hernia may be done with the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, indicated by the family doctor or orthopedist, if this is not enough corticosteroid injections may be indicated every 6 months.
In addition, treatment should also include physical therapy and, in the most severe cases, surgery. The duration of treatment varies from person to person, depending on the symptoms you have and your daily routine. Treatment options include:
Physical therapy helps relieve symptoms caused by the disease and regain movement. It can be done daily, or at least 3 times a week, in case of acute pain.
The device can be used to control pain and inflammation and perform exercises to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, as directed by your physical therapist. In addition, osteopathy can be performed once a week with a specialized physical therapist or osteopath.
Depending on the patient’s health status, some Pilates and global postural rehabilitation exercises (role-playing can be performed under supervision), but strength training exercises are in contravention, in most cases, at least in cases of acute pain. Strength training exercises can usually only be performed in the absence of symptoms, but under medical supervision and under the supervision of the gym teacher.
Lumbar hernia surgery can be performed with various techniques such as using a laser or opening the spine, to join two vertebrae, for example. Surgery is delicate and indicated when other forms of treatment were not enough, always being the last option. Even because after surgery, it’s common for people to need physical therapy.
Risks of surgery include worsening symptoms due to scarring that form when compressing the sciatic nerve, so this is not the first treatment option. Recovery, during the postoperative period, of surgery is slow and the individual should remain at rest for the first few days, avoiding efforts. Physical therapy for lumbar hernia usually begins 15 to 20 days after surgery and can last for months. Learn more about herniated disc surgery
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