Herniated disc symptoms such as pain in the back or limbs can prevent you from participating in activities you love. There are many potential causes for a herniated disc such as natural aging, jobs that require repetitive motions, obesity and smoking, or acute trauma such as a fall or sports injury. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to prevent a herniated disc.
Herniated Disc Prevention
- Prevention of a herniated disc involves reducing the amount of stress placed on your spine by using some of the following methods:
- Use proper technique and form while exercising. For example, bend at the knees while lifting and keep a flat back while doing yoga.
- Strengthen your back and core muscles. These muscles help your spine support the weight of your upper body and stronger muscles will reduce the load on your spine.
- Avoid repetitive motions and long periods of sitting. Poor form such as slouching will weaken your spinal discs over time. Stretching before activity can help loosen up your muscles and prevent injury.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Factors such as obesity or smoking increase the likelihood of spine disease by adding weight for your spine to support or restricting the blood flow in your body.
Herniated Disc Diagnosis
A spine doctor can check for a herniated disc and recommend the best treatment option. Diagnosis begins with a history and physical. The doctor will ask you about recent physical activity and other questions that could be indicative of or rule out a herniated disc. This is followed by physical examinations such as checking your back muscles and testing your motor strength. If the spine doctor determines that there is a high likelihood of a herniated disc or other spine disease, they will order an MRI.
If you would like to check for a herniated disc, request a consult with one of our expert spine surgeons and they can help you with proper diagnosis and planning the least invasive treatment possible.