Dos And Don'ts Of Dealing With A Herniated Disc
A herniated disc can cause you to have serious back pain and shouldn't be ignored. The good news is that herniated discs can heal. But the bad news is that it is easy to aggravate the injury and slow the healing process. Therefore, you need a good herniated disc treatment and back pain management plan so your herniated disc can heal properly. During the healing process, there are things you should and shouldn't do to help recover. Below is a list of some of those dos and don'ts of dealing with a herniated disc.
Dos
Do Keep Moving
Do appropriate exercises and activities to promote the healing process and keep muscles from weakening. Be sure not to overdo your activities, however.
Do Follow Your Therapist's Instructions
Your therapist will give you a set of exercises to strengthen your back and reduce inflammation and pain. Most of these involve stretching and other movements that help support and take pressure off the spine. Make sure you do them as prescribed.
Do Rest When Needed
Recognize when you feel tired and take a rest when needed. Don't push yourself too hard. If you feel strained or your muscles get tired, take a break.
Do Lose Weight and Eat Healthily
If you are overweight, losing weight will put less strain on your back. Eating a healthy diet will provide essential nutrients that help with the healing process.
Don'ts
Don't Do Activities Which Involve Bending
Any kind of unusual twisting and bending can slow the healing process. Avoid activities such as doing laundry or gardening if possible. Even feeding your pet may be difficult.
Don't Do Any Heavy Lifting
Never do any heavy lifting or carrying while your back is healing. Also, refrain from activities that involve shoveling or pushing heavy objects.
Don't Sleep on Your Stomach
Sleeping on your stomach distorts and twists your spine. If you can't sleep on your back, talk to your doctor or therapist about alternative sleeping postures.
Don't Sit Too Long
Sitting puts a lot of strain on even a healthy back. Avoid sitting for long periods and do not cross your legs or lean to one side. Sit with both feet on the floor and with good posture.
A herniated disc doesn't mean that you will suffer from back pain for the rest of your life. Your doctor and physical therapist should give you a list of instructions to ensure that your spine heals correctly. In addition to your doctor, a back pain management facility can work with you to reduce pain and increase your strength and flexibility. Reach out to a professional to learn more about back pain management.
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