1. What is a hernia?
The intervertebral disc is a cavity (shell) of protein fibers – fibrous rings, inside which there is a gel-like content – the nucleus pulposus. If the membrane breaks and the nucleus goes beyond the disc, a bulge is formed, or as it is also called: a herniated disc. Most often (95%), hernias form in the sacral-lumbar spine, then in the cervical (4%) and less often in the thoracic (1%).
2. Why does it arise?
There is no exact answer. A hernia is one of the manifestations of degenerative changes in the spine, which can be caused by heavy physical exertion, a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, trauma, hormonal problems and metabolic disorders, etc. But it is very important to find the root cause of its occurrence in order to eliminate it as much as possible and return the person to the possibility of a full life without pain for many years.
3. How do I know if my back pain is caused by a hernia?
Back pain can be caused not only by a hernia, but, for example, problems with muscles or ligaments. Experienced osteopathic doctors are able to determine the presence of a hernia when examining a patient. To make an accurate diagnosis and assess the size of the hernia, we recommend doing an MRI, in the future this allows you to observe the dynamics.
4. Does a hernia always require surgery?
There must be good reasons for a doctor to suggest surgical treatment for a hernia. If you have been offered surgery, ask for a second opinion. In our clinic, in 98% of cases, patients are successfully treated with conservative methods. According to the indications and depending on the root cause, we prescribe physiotherapy, classes with rehabilitation doctors (functional training and mechanotherapy), which in combination helps to eliminate pain, relieve inflammation, reduce the size of the hernia and create a muscle corset that will maintain the health of the spine for many years …
5. Should I give up sports because of a hernia?
Reasonable physical activity and physiotherapy exercises are mandatory components of complex therapy in the treatment of intervertebral hernia. It is important to choose a load that will help strengthen the back muscles and will not strain the spine: swimming, Pilates, exercise therapy.