Disc Herniation Essay

1529 Words4 Pages

Disc Herniation A herniated disc is also commonly known as HNP (herniated nucleus pulposus). A disc herniation occurs when the nucleus of a vertebral disc protrudes posteriorly through a crack in the annulus. A herniated disc can occur at any age, but it is most commonly seen in individuals between the ages of 30-40 years old. This often occurs as a result of the aging process because healthy discs have a high water content to help them stay flexible and act as a cushion for the vertebrae, but as we age they tend to dry out from all of the “wear and tear” we put our spines through. A herniated disc is very common and happens quite often when we age or it can happen from a sudden impact force such as a car crash. When we age and our discs dry out, it makes the vertebra more brittle and susceptible to cracking which can cause a disc to herniate. A herniation usually occurs with sudden exertion when the spine is rotated or in a flexed position. When a disc is herniated, the most common spot for it …show more content…

Even after therapy is completed, you have to continue to properly stretch and strengthen those same muscles when you are at home and continue to take care of your body to stay in good health. Physical therapy plays a huge role when dealing with a herniated disc because it can provide instant pain relief and help fix the problems associated with the herniated disc. Therapy can help with pain relief for any condition, not just disc problems. Physical therapy also educates patients on how to condition and properly exercise their body to prevent further injury. Therapists can show you how to properly stretch the correct muscles, demonstrate the proper conditioning exercises for your condition, and what not to do for that specific diagnosis. They always keep their main focus on helping the patient get back to feeling better and trying to better their

More about Disc Herniation Essay

Open Document