Non-Surgical Treatment of Herniated Disc and Low Back Pain

Low back pain is the most common complaint in a physiotherapy practice. Complaints vary widely from acute to chronic pain, from stabbing and burning pain to a mild intermittent ache. Some people have been told they have a bulging or herniated disc that was diagnosed from an MRI. It could be the cause of numbness and tingling down the leg or it could cause ‘sciatica’ down the back of the leg.

Some may require surgery but the alternative is a conservative approach with physiotherapy treatment. Whether back problems result from a lifting injury, a car accident or repetitive strains, physiotherapy treatments will lessen the pain. Whether the pain is mild or severe with sciatica or disc herniation, the physiotherapist explains the cause and sets out a specific treatment protocol.

Our physiotherapists conduct a comprehensive spinal assessment to determine the cause. They include many components both objective and subjective, from range of motion to neurological signs. One dynamic assessment protocol designed by the International McKenzie Institute is to test certain movements and watch for changes in location and intensity of the pain.

An individual, comprehensive program is developed which usually includes pain relieving modalities, hands-on mobilizations and manual therapies. A specific exercise program is created for each individual together with a list of do’s and don’ts for everyday home activities. The ‘Treat Your Own Back’  book is often a good reference guide. 

Recovery from low back pain is speedier and longer lasting when individualized stretching or strengthening workouts are prescribed and are specific to each problem. Recent studies testify that recovery is slower when people do standard back exercises prescribed for all.