How can I prevent a slipped disk?
4 min read
Asked by: Sean Sanchez
How can I avoid getting a herniated disk?
- Using proper lifting techniques. Don’t bend at the waist. …
- Maintaining a healthy weight. Excess weight puts pressure on the lower back.
- Practicing good posture. …
- Stretching. …
- Avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes. …
- Exercising regularly. …
- Stopping smoking.
What causes you to slip a disc?
A disc can slip out of place while you are twisting or turning to lift an object. Lifting a very large, heavy object can place great strain on the lower back, resulting in a slipped disc. If you have a very physically demanding job that requires a lot of lifting, you may be at increased risk for slipped discs.
How do you prevent slipped discs from recurrence?
6 Ways to Prevent Re-herniating a Disc
- Avoiding lifting heavy objects or lifting with incorrect form. …
- Don’t hunch your back when sitting for extended periods, while standing, or while walking. …
- Try not to sleep on your stomach. …
- Opt for flats rather than high heels. …
- Stay slim. …
- Stop smoking.
What relieves a slipped disc?
Applying heat and/or cold therapy to the lower back can alleviate muscle tension that is commonly present with a lumbar herniated disc. Heat helps loosen the muscle tightness that causes spasms, increases blood flow, and improves elasticity of connective tissue.
What aggravates a slipped disc?
Shoveling snow and gardening can worsen your disc pain, as it often involves heavy lifting, forward-bending, and twisting—motions that easily aggravate your discs.
Can slip disc be cured permanently?
Yes, slipped disc can be cured. It cannot be entirely prevented but one can reduce the risk by being physically active, performing back strengthening exercises and yoga.
Can a slipped disc heal itself?
A herniated disk is also known as a slipped, ruptured or bulging disk. It’s one of the most common causes of neck, back and leg pain. Most of the time, herniated disks heal on their own or with simple home-care measures.
How can I strengthen my lower back?
Up off of the floor. Now as you lift up i want you to go as high as you can comfortably. Hold that contraction for about three to five seconds. And then slowly return back down to that starting.
How long does a slipped disc take to heal?
A slipped disc in the lumbar region of the spine (the lower back) can press on the sciatic nerve and cause pain that often radiates down one leg and into the foot. Most people recover from a slipped disc within six weeks without treatment.
Can sitting too much cause herniated disc?
You may be surprised to learn that sitting places more stress on your spinal discs than standing. On top of this, most people tend to slouch forward when they sit at their desks for an extended period of time. In turn, this can overstretch your spinal ligaments and strain your herniated disc.
Is bed rest good for slipped disc?
Most often 1-2 days of strict bed rest will calm severe back pain. Bed rest should not exceed 48 hours. Once you are back into your daily routine, you should take frequent rest breaks throughout the day- but avoid sitting for long periods of time.
Is sitting or standing better for herniated disc?
Sitting for long periods of time isn’t ideal for people with a herniated disc. A standing desk is a great option, but if you must sit, rest your spine firmly against the chair back, sit up straight, and don’t slouch (which strains the spinal ligaments and aggravates a herniated disc).
How do you sleep with a slipped disc?
If you have a herniated disc, you may want to try sleeping on your side curled in a fetal position:
- Lay on your back and then roll over gently onto your side.
- Tuck your knees toward your chest and gently curl your torso toward your knees.
- Remember to switch sides from time to time to prevent any imbalances.
What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?
There is no “quick fix” for a herniated disc. Some herniated discs, also called slipped discs, heal on their own in a few weeks to a few months.
How to heal a herniated disc quickly
- Alternate applying heat and cold.
- Stay as active as you can. …
- Try alternative treatments like acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic.
