What is it?

Your intervertebral disc’s are the disc’s that lie between each  individual vertebrae in the spine. Their purpose is to absorb shock, increase stability and also the range of movement in your spine. They are made up of two components, a fibrous structure on the outside and a paste-like nucleus on the inside. When enough pressure is applied to one side of the disc, the paste-like nucleus can protrude or bulge out from the fibrous disc. This is otherwise known as a “prolapsed disc”.

What causes it?

The most common cause of disc prolapse is when a person bends over to lift a heavy object incorrectly. This will increase the pressure of the discs in the lower back causing the nucleus to bulge or protrude posteriorly. A prolapsed can be less commonly caused by a fall or an incident of whiplash.

What are the Symptoms?

Someone suffering with a prolapsed disc may present with back pain and stiffness generally in the region of the prolapsed disc. In more severe cases they may experience pain down into the leg and even as far as the foot (otherwise known as Sciatica). These symptoms can often be exaggerated when bending forwards, sitting, lifting, coughing and sneezing. A prolapsed disc can cause an inflammatory response from the body, this can cause symptoms to be worse during the morning and the evening with symptoms easing off during the day.

How can we help you?

Physiotherapy can be extremely beneficial for someone suffering with a prolapsed disc. Our aim will be to reduce your pain and stiffness, increase your core stability and flexibility, and provide you with education and advice to prevent any future occurence.

What types of treatment can we offer?

Manipulation Therapy – Can help to release joints that have become stiff and dysfunctional.

Soft tissue massage – can reduce muscle tension, improve tissue mobility, enhance muscle contraction and desensitise any painful and overactive areas.

Core Stability Work – Can strengthen the muscles that stabilise and support your back.

Manual Mobilisation Therapy –These are passive movements that the therapist applies to the spine to increase range of movement, reduce stiffness and pain.

Exercises and Rehabilitation – We can provide you with a tailored exercise programme focusing on your needs in order to maintain/improve both strength and mobility

Acupuncture - Can stimulate the body's natural healing response, release pain-killing endorphins and improve functioning of the hormonal system.

Ergonomic and postural advice – Can help you manage your day to day activities whether you’re sitting at a desk or trying to get a good night’s sleep.

Ultrasound Therapy - Can speed up and optimise the healing process.

Interferential Therapy – Can provide pain relief, muscle stimulation, enhance blood flow and reduce oedema.

TENS – Can be applied throughout the day to provide natural pain relief.

McKenzie Method – Is a form of assessment and treatment which can help the therapist recognise which positions and movements can ease your symptoms, the therapist can then implement them into an exercise programme

Any Questions?  Please contact us