Slipped Disc Treatment

Cervical Spine

A slipped disc in the cervical spine may produce symptoms of numbness, weakness, tingling and discomfort into the neck, shoulder, arm and hands. This referred pain is a result of nerve irritation from the increased pressure from the ruptured disc. Slipped disc treatment, following confirmation by diagnostic imaging, of the cervical spine generally begins with a recommendation of decreased activity or bed rest followed by ice and heat applications. Physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation are beneficial forms of conservative care treatments that result in positive outcomes in the majority of patients.

Lumbar Spine

The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs. As with the cervical spine, these discs may become ruptured and can produce symptoms that will refer into the extremities. This pain may refer into the buttocks, thighs, legs and feet. The lumbar spine is the most common spinal section to suffer from a slipped disc due to its weight-bearing responsibilities, as well as its range of mobility. The treatment for a slipped disc in the lumbar spine is similar to treatment for a ruptured cervical disc, with bed rest and decreased activity followed by heat and ice therapy and finally stretching and strengthening exercises accompanying chiropractic and massage care.

References Cited in this Article

www.emedicinehealth.com

www.spine-health.com