Chances are you or someone you know will experience some degree of back pain in your lifetime. There are many factors that can cause individuals to experience back pain. When we experience back problems it can bring our weekend plans to a complete stop. Depending upon the severity of the injury, it could possibly prevent us from even walking or standing. It can also make it very difficult to sit for prolonged periods of time at our desk at work. It is always best to watch your back so you don’t slip a disc.
The spine is divided into 3 sections, (1) the cervical spine, (2)the thoracic spine and (3) the lumbar spine. The spine is comprised of bony vertebrae and discs. Discs can be found in between each vertebra. They are made up of a tough flexible fibrous outer layer and a jelly-like center. The disc acts as a shock absorber for the spine and allows for its flexibility. As we age, the soft jelly center of our discs become less pliable and can lead to disc problems. Some of the most common disc issues are:
- Herniated Disc. This occurs when the outer layer of the disc is ruptured and the jelly-like middle protrudes out of the disc. This shift in the shape of the disc puts extra pressure on the surrounding structures in the spine.
- Degenerative Disc Disease. Is caused by wear and tear as we age, injuries, and because the discs become less pliable and are unable to support and absorb shock in our spine.
Disc related issues are not something that should be brushed-off thinking it will “get better in a few days.” If left untreated, these symptoms will only get worse and possibly lead to radiating pain or numbness and tingling into your arms or legs. This can certainly further restrict you from getting a good night’s sleep and handle any household chores such as bending and reaching up to put the dishes away. These seemingly simple tasks become very difficult and time consuming.
Those with a herniated disc or who have degenerative disc disease often have similar symptoms. It is common for those individuals to experience pain especially when bending, twisting and moving; muscle spasms, numbness, tingling and weakness into the arms or legs. Symptoms vary from case to case and can fluctuate depending upon the activity attempting to be performed as well as your posture.
Physical Therapy to the rescue. Physical Therapy can reduce pain and help to strengthen the appropriate areas to help assist in the support of your spine as well as improve your posture.
CALL Loudoun Sports Therapy Center TODAY qt 703-450-4300 to schedule your evaluation with a Physical Therapist that will give you an individualized evaluation and treatment plan that fits your specific needs and goals.
By Alyssa Burke
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