What is a herniated disc? Herniated discs are often caused when too much pressure is put on an otherwise healthy spine. The spine is composed of many bony vertebrae, separated by jelly-like discs.
These discs cushion the joints during impact, allow for movement in the spine and keep the vertebrae in place. A herniated disc occurs when the soft inside of the disc (the nucleus) leaks through the tough outer portion (the annulus). This irritates the surrounding nerves.
When the herniated disc affects the nerves in a specific area of the spine, it can lead to pain and weakness in the area of the body that specific nerve serves.
Cervical radiculopathy
If a disc herniates in the neck or upper spine, it can cause pain to radiate down the shoulder, arm to the hand. This pain is called cervical radiculopathy. It’s more commonly referred to as a pinched nerve. Cervical radiculopathy may result in feelings of burning, tingling, and weakness in the arm, shoulder, or hand. In severe cases, it may also result in loss of feeling and paralysis.
Treatment for Herniated Disc
There are several treatment approaches for a herniated disc. Most doctors recommend pain medication, rest, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments such as Massage before considering surgery.
There are many reasons that you might decide massage for a herniated disc is right for you.
*General muscle and joint stiffness or soreness
*Feelings of anxiety, stress, and even depression
*Trouble completing daily activities due to stiffness and pain
*Good past experiences with massage
*Poor pain cycle: stiffness is causing movement avoidance, which in turn is causing more stiffness and pain
*Your herniated disc is affecting your sleep quality
*You think one might help!
Deep tissue massage is a great option for addressing those stubborn, stiff, and sore spots. Deep massage is used to target specific problem areas in the muscles or fascia (tough, thick, layers of connective tissue that separate layers and surround muscle). Massage therapy helps release the constricted muscles related to your nerve compression and relieve your pain. Patients often find relief from their pain after just one treatment.
When healing from a painful disc herniation, massage is a great adjunct to other treatments to get you back on track to a life you can participate in fully.
Body & Soul Massage in Salem Ma offers Therapeutic Massage for Pain Relief. For more information about our Massage Packages or Wellness Programs visit our website www.bodysoulsalem or call 978-825-0040.