What Is Disc Injury?
Disc injuries are very common and are frequently treated conservatively. They can occur with trauma, such as in a car accident, or can develop over time with repeated stress from poor posture and moving incorrectly. Discs can bulge and become inflamed, compressing nerves and in some cases become damaged, leading to a disc herniation.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms include lower back pain, radiating pain that travels from the spine down into the buttock and thigh, to full fledged leg pain known as Sciatica which commonly moves below the knee. Difficulty standing up straight or bending forward to tie ones shoes is also common. Weakness in the back or legs can also occur. If you cannot stand fully erect without looking crooked, this could also indicate an injured disc.
How To Treat It
There are simple exercises that can help improve your posture and alleviate the leg pain, such as bending backwards into cobra pose in sets of 10 until the leg pain dissipates and your posture improves. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away for treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.
Exercises must be tailored to your specific type of disc injury. If you notice any leg weakness or changes in bowel or bladder function, seek medical attention as soon as you can.