A herniated disc occurs in one of the rubbery cushions that sit between the bones of the vertebrae that stack to make up your spine. One is often a result of gradual, age-related wear and tear known as disc degeneration. They normally occur in the lower back but can also appear in the neck. The disc can press on the nerves in your spine causing back pain midtown, weakness, and numbness throughout your body.
How is a Herniated Disc Treated?
There are a few different ways that a herniated disc can be treated. These include:
- Rest – This should help reduce the swelling and give your back the time it needs to heal. Bed rest is fine, but do not stay off your feet for more than one or two days to make sure your joints and muscles do not stiffen up.
- Medications – Over the counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen can relieve the pain and the swelling. If these medications do not work, your doctor may prescribe you with stronger medication for your back pain midtown.
- Physical Therapy – The exercises involved in physical therapy will help strengthen the muscles that support your back. Physical therapy would involve a series of stretches, aerobic exercises, massages, ice and heat, and electrical muscle stimulation.
- Surgery – Few people with herniated discs eventually would need surgery, however, if your symptoms have not improved after six weeks, your doctor may recommend surgery.
All are ways to treat your herniated disc, but none of them see results like physical therapy. It is non-invasive and it allows you to strengthen your muscles to prevent another injury from taking place later on. Physical therapy can help your back pain midtown and get you on the path to feeling better than ever.
First Health Physical Therapy – Experts of Treatment for Back Pain Midtown NYC
If you are in need of treatment for back pain in midtown, come visit First Health Physical Therapy. We provide orthopedic and sports medicine physical therapy that focuses on improving your functional performance. We want to help you get back to feeling your best and improve your quality of life. For more information about us, visit us online or call 212.421.1740.