Massaging these muscles can restore proper balance and symmetry to the posture, which can allow the bulging disc to migrate back to its normal position in the spinal column. The pressure against the spinal nerves often subsides, and very likely, the pain associated with it to goes away.
While direct manual pressure to the spine is contraindicated, massaging the surrounding muscular tissues can ease the symptoms of a herniated or bulging disc. In addition to relieving the discomfort, massage can also increase the chances of the disc healing on its own without invasive measures.
In theory the disc should be able to be popped back into its natural state, but it is very difficult to just “pop” a herniated disc back into place like a displaced gear. In fact, trying to pop a disc back into place can make the issue worse if the person doing the “popping” doesn't know what they are doing.
The most common procedure used to treat a single herniated disk is microdiskectomy. The procedure is done through a small incision at the level of the disk herniation and often involves the use of a microscope.
If you suspect you have a herniated disk or your doctor has confirmed this diagnosis, there are a few things you should avoid. Avoid lifting heavy objects or bending at the waist at any time. Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes. They put pressure on your lower back and send your spine out of alignment.
The pain is a result of spinal nerve inflammation and swelling caused by the pressure of the herniated disc. Over time, the herniation tends to shrink and you may experience partial or complete pain relief. In most cases, if low back and/or leg pain is going to resolve it will do so in about 6 weeks.
In some cases, surgery may be required to fix a herniated disc. However, bulging discs more often heal on their own over time, and surgery isn't needed. Your doctor can perform a neurological exam to test your muscle strength, reflexes, and walking ability.
Stretching can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with a bulging disc, such as muscle tension and spasms. It can also increase your range of motion, which can help you perform everyday tasks more comfortably.
Is It Possible to Feel Bulging Discs? If you have a bulging spinal disc, you may be wondering if you can physically feel it. You are not likely to be able to feel the disc itself, since it is located between the bones of your spine.
Coughing, sneezing, sitting, driving, and bending forward may make the pain worse. The pain gets worse when you make these movements because there is more pressure on the nerve.
Don't worry, when it comes to bulging discs, there are multiple treatments dependant on the extent of your condition. Bulging discs can be treated by physiotherapy through a few different techniques.
In general, a flare-up can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, it is important to note that every individual is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
Some common symptoms that come from bulging discs are pain and tingling throughout the entire upper body, muscle spasms, and lower back discomfort or pain. If you suffer with this condition, then a chiropractor may be able to fix a bulging disc and relieve your pain.
Most people can generally expect to feel better in a few weeks. The healing time for a herniated disc depends on the exact nature of the injury and symptoms, and can last from just a few days to months, according to Gbolabo Sokunbi, M.D., Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
There are several signs of a healed herniated disk. However, the first symptom that will reveal that you are on the way to healing is that the sharp, shooting pain in your legs or arms will go away, followed by some muscle weakness in that nerve path. However, if you have numbness, it might take longer to heal.
Heat therapy may be best after those first 48 hours, as heat helps to relieve painful muscle spasms. Methods for applying heat include taking a warm bath, using a wrap that applies continuous low-level heat to the area, or by using a heating pad.
Deep Tissue massage: Although there are more than 100 types, deep tissue massage can be a good choice if you have a herniated disc.
Discs that become herniated usually are in an early stage of degeneration. The spinal canal has limited space, which is inadequate for the spinal nerve and the displaced herniated disc fragment. Due to this displacement, the disc presses on spinal nerves, often producing pain, which may be severe.
Along with excessive reaching, stretching, and bending, sitting can aggravate the symptoms of a herniated disc (sometimes referred to as a “ruptured” or “bulging” disc) for some people.
Caution: Seated forward bends are riskiest to the lumbar spine, as the hips are fixed so any brunt of the movement will go into the body. The safest forward bend for disc damage of any kind in the lumbar spine is Apanasana, where the spine is completely supported by the floor.