Herniated Intervertebral Disc
What is a Herniated Intervertebral Disc
Discs separate the vertebrae in the spine and act to cushion the vertebrae and add flexibility to the back. Herniation is when the inner component of the disc tears through the outer covering of the disc. This protrusion exerts pressure onto the spinal column, and as such the nerve root as well, which can lead to nerve conduction issues. The tear on the outer disc may occur suddenly or gradually as a result of trauma, or poor body mechanics. The most common areas of herniation are in the lumbosacral and the cervical spine. If the pressure on the nerve tissues is prolonged or there is an impingement on blood supply, nerve damage may as a result be permanent. The location of the herniation determines which functions are impaired.
Predispositions to herniations can include age or metabolic changes. Disc herniations are usually caused by trauma or excessive stress on the muscles of the back. Being location dependant, the symptoms can vary. If the herniation has occurred in the lumbosacral spine, pain is often in the lower back radiating down one or both legs like sciatic pain (pinched nerve). This pain is usually worsened with actions such as coughing and straight leg raising. When the protrusion occurs in the cervical spine, the pain is experienced in the neck and shoulder area, radiating down the arm. Sensory impairment, weakness, muscle spasm and reduced range of motion may occur.
What are the treatment options?
Diagnosis is made with the use of myelography with contrast dye, CT scans, and MRI’s. Treatments are generally of a conservative nature with the use of NSAID’s, pain medications, rest, heat or ice application, muscle relaxants, and traction. In severe cases surgery may be recommended. Spinal fusions can be performed if there are more than one vertebrae involved creating spinal instability.
How can Nubax Trio help with Herniated Intervertebral Disc?
Nubax Trio uses a lever system to decompress the vertebrae. This exerts a suction force from the centre of the intervertebral disc allowing the compressed disc to regain its thickness and reabsorb the protrusion. This will not only correct the herniation, but also provide safe and simple pain relief that can effectively get you back to moving freely.
With the use of Nubax Trio, circulation to the intervertebral spaces is increased, providing nutrients and blood to stimulate healing and renourish the nervous system. Back traction may not be suitable in conditions that require medical attention. Check with a qualified health practitioner for the suitability of back decompression before use.
