Hernia, in normal words, refers to the displacement of any body part from its original position. Thus, the herniated disk simply means the displacement of the spine disk from its position. The common treatment options for a hernia include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, neuropathic drugs, and muscle relaxants.
In severe cases, surgery is the only line of action. During the surgical procedure, the surgeon operates to shift the disc back in position. Further, if necessary, the orthopedic may consider trimming or cutting a small part of the spinal bone.
After the treatment options, the patient is advised to rest. At times, with a prolonged rest period, the muscles go sore and attain a state of tension. Thus, engaging in activities that help return to normal life is recommended.
What is the Recovery Process?
During herniated disc treatment, the patient is asked to rest properly to heal the back muscles. It helps release the buildup of muscle tension, thus making space for the disc to return to its original position.
In surgery, the patient is recommended to take complete bed rest. During this span of two weeks, the patient is asked to restrict complete movement, which helps create blood clots at the incision site, promoting healing.
After two weeks, the patient is asked to start with light exercises like walking. However, it is strongly advisable to avoid any major movements that may hamper healing. For instance, running, jumping, and lifting weights must be completely avoided.
The patient needs to follow all the post-treatment instructions to support complete healing. It helps the muscles around the disc to form completely and avoid its shifting in the future. However, if this is not followed, it may hamper the reformation of the muscles and ligaments, causing the disc to move out of its position again.
Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation and physical therapy are major parts of herniated disk treatment. They help build the core strength of the spine muscles, which help hold the spinal disc together in one position. It is important to gain strength before engaging in rigorous activities. It also acts as buffer time that helps the body regain its lost stamina. Here are some of the physical therapy exercises that one must do-
- Exercises to Improve Range of Motion and Flexibility
- Exercises to Strengthen the Core and support Muscles
- Exercises to Improve Balance and Coordination
Lifestyle Modifications
If an individual has a slipped disc treatment, they must make major changes in their lifestyle. It shall not only help ensure that this doesn’t happen again but also helps in faster healing and recovery. Here are some things that you should consider-
- Ergonomics and Proper Body Mechanics
Maintaining a correct body posture can help prevent a herniated disc. To start, one must consider wearing a back brace that shall help keep the back erect and tight.
It also acts as a cushion in case of a sudden blow and prevents direct effects on the herniated disc. In the case of a cervical herniated disc, a neck collar may also be recommended.
- Healthy Diet and Exercise
A balanced diet and three meals are popular treatments for a herniated disc. One must add iron, vitamins, minerals, fats, and calcium to their food.
Adding multivitamins, D3, and calcium supplements are suggested. You can also engage in light physical activities per the doctor’s suggestions.
- Stress Management Techniques
Reducing stress helps to lead a happy and healthy life. It also helps in faster healing and better recovery.
Coping Strategies
- Dealing with Chronic Pain
In several cases of chronic pain, the patient gets used to the existence of the disease. For instance, they shall be accommodated to bend and walk in a particular way to avoid pain. Even after the treatment of herniated discs, at times, the patient continues this habit.
However, this negatively impacts the health of the patient and may cause the occurrence of a hernia. Thus it is necessary to check the correct body postures and eliminate old habits.
- Managing Emotional Distress and Depression
The treatment of a herniated disc can be long and financially consuming. The patient may also indulge in emotional distress and anxiety in this situation. It creates panic in the patient’s life, forcing them back into work. It creates an impact on healing and must be avoided.
- Building a Support System
Having friends and family around the patient during the treatment of herniated can help in faster healing as it reduces your stress and anxiety. Moreover, people can help with physical activities that the patient can temporarily not do.
- Setting Realistic Goals
Lastly, the patient must remember that every step ahead is one step closer to healing. The patient must not Rush and take things very calmly. Remember to set small, achievable goals that can help you gain a sense of satisfaction.
Return to Normal Life
The chances of relapse in hernia cases are extremely high. The patient must remember not to rush back into a normal routine, which may result in a relapse. Rather, patients must wait patiently, allowing their bodies to cope.
Conclusion
If you have persistent pain or swelling in your back, you must consider visiting a doctor as soon as possible, as you might have a slipped disc or hernia. After your treatment, remember that you must be extremely slow and patient regarding healing. It is essential to keep calm and not rush to return to normal activities allowing the body to heal properly.