A herniated disc is a common injury from prolonged sitting, heavy lifting or repetitive movements often associated with particular occupations. WCB physiotherapy helps with the significant discomfort. Work injury physiotherapy Edmonton offers a range of practical techniques to manage and rehabilitate work-induced herniated disc injuries.
What is Herniated Discs?
The spine comprises of a series of vertebrae stacked on each other, with intervertebral discs between them. These discs absorb shock and provide flexibility to the spine.
A herniated disc is also called a slipped disc. It occurs when the inner gel-like material of one of the spinal disc pushes through a tear in its outermost layer. This protrusion can irritate nearby nerves, leading to various symptoms.Â
Physiotherapy Techniques for Managing Herniated Discs
Work injury physiotherapy in Edmonton plays a crucial role in managing and rehabilitating herniated disc injuries. Fundamental techniques used by physiotherapists include:
Pain Management Techniques
Pain management for herniated discs is used to alleviate discomfort and support recovery.
- Manual Therapy is one such technique. To perform manual therapy, a physiotherapist will use hands-on methods like spinal manipulation or mobilization. For spinal manipulation, the therapist applies controlled pressure to the affected spinal segments to restore alignment and relieve pressure on the herniated disc and surrounding nerves. Mobilization involves gentle, rhythmic movements to improve the range of motion in the spine. These techniques help to restore standard movement patterns and ease discomfort.
- Heat and Cold Therapy is another critical aspect of pain management. Applying an ice pack to the area that is injures could help reduce the inflammation during the acute phase of a herniated disc injury. The ice should be wrapped in a cloth and applied for 15-20 minutes daily. Heat packs help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow as the injury progresses and inflammation decreases. To apply heat therapy, use a warm pack on the injured area for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the heat is comfortably warm but not too hot to avoid burns.
Shockwave Therapy
- Shockwave Therapy is designed to manage herniated disc injuries by stimulating healing and alleviating pain. The primary goal of this therapy is to accelerate tissue repair and reduce discomfort. A physiotherapist uses a handheld device to deliver acoustic waves directly to the affected area around the herniated disc during the procedure. These high-energy sound waves penetrate deep into the tissues, promoting several beneficial effects: they enhance the body’s natural healing processes, improve blood circulation to the injured tissues, and help to alleviate pain by disrupting pain signals and encouraging the release of natural painkillers.Â
- Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for addressing deep tissue injuries and chronic pain associated with herniated discs, making it a valuable component of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
Dry Needling Therapy
- Dry Needling Therapy involves a specific process to alleviate muscle pain and enhance function, especially in herniated discs. A trained physiotherapist inserts thin needles into particular muscle trigger points for dry needling. These trigger points are identified as areas of heightened sensitivity and tension. Inserting needles into these points helps release muscle tightness in the affected areas.
- This technique reduces muscle spasms associated with herniated discs, thereby supporting functional improvement.
Exercise Therapy
Incorporating various exercises is essential for managing herniated discs, promoting healing and enhancing spinal stability. These exercises can be categorized as rehabilitation.
- Stretching Techniques help alleviate tension and improve flexibility in the affected area. The Knee-to-Chest Stretch involves lying on the back with the knees bent while holding it with both hands. This stretch should be held for 20-30 seconds, repeating 2-3 times per leg. It targets the lower back and glutes, easing tension and enhancing flexibility. Another effective stretch is the Cat-Cow Stretch, performed on the hands and knees. By inhaling to arch the back and exhaling to round it, individuals alternate between these positions for 10-15 repetitions. This exercise improves spinal flexibility and reduces stiffness in the back.
- Strengthening Techniques focus on building the muscles that support the spine and stabilize the lower back. The Pelvic Tilts exercise involves lying on the back with the knees bent on the ground. Try to tighten the abdominal muscles and press the lower back into the floor, tilting the pelvis upward. Hold for a few seconds, then relax, repeating 10-15 times. This strengthens the abdominal muscles and stabilizes the lower back.
- Functional Techniques enhance overall balance and coordination in herniated disc injuries. The Bird Dog exercise begins on the hands and knees. Extend one arm forward while the opposite leg extends backward. Hold for a few seconds before returning to the starting position, alternating sides for 10-15 repetitions per side. This technique enhances core strength and stability, improving balance and coordination.
The Roadmap to Herniated Disc Recovery
Work injury physiotherapy in Edmonton offers a comprehensive approach to managing and rehabilitating work-induced herniated disc injuries. Physiotherapists help individuals reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery. For personalized assessment and effective treatment, Next Step Physiotherapy provides expert care to guide individuals from injury. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at the WCB-approved clinic and start the journey toward a healthier, pain-free life.