Low back pain is one of the main problems that everyone may experience once in their lives. First of all, our spine allows us to keep our body upright. The region where the spine is exposed to highest burden is the low back region. Therefore, pain and hernia mostly occur in the low back region. Herniated lumbar disc is more common among those sitting for a long time and in occupational groups carrying heavy loads.
Every low back pain is not caused by herniated lumbar disc. Only 1-4% of low back pain cases are caused by herniated lumbar disc. In many people in the community, MRI may reveal a hernia. However, this may not cause any pain. Therefore, the origin of low back pain may be biomechanical disorders of the spinal structures in people with low back pain, even if hernia is present. In Turkey, only 3-7% of low back pain and nerve compression cases caused by herniated lumbar disc require surgery.
Chiropractic and Osteopathic Therapy in Low Back Pain and Herniated Lumbar Disc
What are the symptoms of herniated lumbar disc?
In cases of herniated lumbar disc, first of all, pain may be felt in the low back. Stiffness arises in the lumbar muscles. Difficulties are experienced in moving. In the case of an edematous condition causing pressure on nerve in herniated lumbar disc, pain, tingling and numbness arise in the feet and legs. Difficulties may be experienced in bending, turning left and right or standing up. The sensation of stinging is felt in the hip. In long-term herniated lumbar disc, weakness may occur in the legs.
Chiropractic and Osteopathic Therapy in Low Back Pain and Herniated Lumbar Disc
There may be many causes of low back pain. Roughly, it is of great importance to approach as mechanical and non-mechanical low back pain. In most cases, low back pain is mechanical. Especially in cases of movement limitations and disorders in the lumbar vertebrae and movement disorders in the sacroiliac joint, ligaments and muscles are the most affected structures depending on the function in lumbar movements. The cause of the problem experienced by patient is understood based on the data obtained from anamnesis (disease history) and physical examination. Imaging techniques can be used to support diagnosis.
Chiropractic and Osteopathic Therapy in Low Back Pain and Herniated Lumbar Disc
In the USA and Europe, chiropractic and osteopathy are the most effective and most widely used treatment methods for the treatment of low back pain and herniated lumbar disc. Chiropractic eliminates both movement limitation and pain by removing the pressure on spinal joints and nerves. With the help of osteopathy, hernia-induced edema is reduced and the circulation is improved, providing the hernia to heal. Exercises provide muscle and ligament balance, ensuring the permanence of treatment.