Herniated Disc: Symptoms, Causes, and Preventive Measures
Even a strong back can be a source of joy. Did you know that an elephant spends most of its life standing, even while it sleeps? For us humans, of course, that’s not an option. Our backs, in particular, need regular relief, which they get while we sleep. However, our spine also needs movement to stay healthy. But what happens when one of the most important structures in our back—the intervertebral discs—causes problems? In this article, you’ll learn more about herniated discs, their symptoms, and treatment options, as well as whether massage can provide relief for a herniated disc. Recommended reading: Learn more about the many benefits of massage...
Even a strong back can be a delight. Did you know that an elephant spends most of its life standing, even when it sleeps? For us humans, of course, that’s not an option. Our backs, in particular, need regular relief, which they get while we sleep. But our spine also needs movement to stay healthy.
But what happens when one of the most important structures in our spine—the intervertebral discs—causes problems? In this article, you’ll learn more about herniated discs, their symptoms, and treatment options, as well as whether massage can provide relief for a herniated disc.
Recommended Reading: Learn more about the many benefits of massage in our article From Head to Toe—Here’s How Massage Can Help.
Note: This article is not a substitute for medical expertise. If you are experiencing persistent pain, be sure to consult a doctor.
Let's start with a basic question on this topic to understand how these extremely bothersome and often agonizing symptoms can develop in the first place.
What is a herniated disc, and what kind of pain does it cause?
A herniated disc occurs when the inner core of an intervertebral disc is pushed out through a tear in the outer ring. This can lead to pain, numbness, and even paralysis if nerve roots or the spinal cord are affected.
While a herniated disc can cause serious symptoms such as back pain—usually in the lower back—it is often confused with other back conditions, such as lumbago, which is typically caused by muscle tension and results in less severe symptoms. A look at the structure of our intervertebral discs helps us better understand how herniated discs can occur.
Recommended Reading: For more information on treating back pain, check out our article onthe symptoms, causes, and treatment of back pain.
What does an intervertebral disc look like?
Our spine consists of individual vertebrae, with intervertebral discs located between them. These discs act as shock absorbers and consist of a soft, gel-like core—the nucleus pulposus—and a firm outer ring—the annulus fibrosus.
This structure allows the intervertebral discs to absorb pressure and stress, thereby ensuring the mobility and stability of the spine. What happens when these structures are damaged, and what are the symptoms?
Herniated Disc and Its Symptoms—What Does a Damaged Disc Feel Like?
Source: https://www.helios-gesundheit.de/magazin/news/02/bandscheibenvorfall/
A herniated disc can cause a wide range of symptoms, which vary depending on its location and severity. Severe pain often occurs, which can radiate into the extremities. A herniated disc in the lumbar spine often causes pain in the lower back that can radiate down the leg—a condition known as sciatica.
In cases involving the cervical spine, pain often radiates into the arms and hands. In the thoracic spine, pain in the upper back and chest area is typical. In addition to pain, numbness, tingling, or even paralysis may occur. In women, the pain may also more frequently trigger a feeling of nausea, in addition to severe pain.
Recommended Reading: Pain that is difficult to pinpoint or that radiates can have a variety of causes. In our article on migratory joint pain , we’ve focused specifically on this topic.
Let's take a look at what factors actually lead to a herniated disc and how it is diagnosed.
Causes, Risk Factors, and Diagnosis of Herniated Discs
A herniated disc is usually caused by age-related wear and tear and degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Risk factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, and poor posture can increase this wear and tear and, consequently, the risk. Heavy physical labor and improper lifting techniques also place additional strain on the intervertebral discs.
For diagnosis, imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans are typically used to determine the exact location and extent of the herniation. This allows damage to the annulus of the intervertebral disc to be visualized and the affected areas to be identified.
Because of the radiating pain, patients often have only a vague idea of where along the spine the cause might be. Once the affected intervertebral disc has been identified, your doctor will develop an appropriate treatment plan.
What is the treatment for herniated discs?
Depending on the severity, healthcare professionals will choose the appropriate form of treatment. In many cases, conservative treatment is sufficient. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications help alleviate symptoms.
In addition, physical therapy is recommended for a herniated disc. The goal is to strengthen the muscles in the affected area and improve mobility in the long term. Targeted exercises such as the bridge, the swimmer, or the cat-cow pose are particularly effective. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerves caused by the damaged disc.
As home remedies, heat therapy or massage can help relax the surrounding muscles. They provide temporary relief but should only be used after consulting a doctor, as improper use can worsen the symptoms.
Can a herniated disc be caused by massage?
People often ask whether a massage can cause a herniated disc. In general, massages cannot cause a herniated disc. Rather, they are intended to relax the muscles and relieve pain. However, it is important that massages be performed properly.
Especially in cases of existing back problems, improper or overly vigorous massages can worsen existing symptoms or lead to further problems. Therefore, a medical evaluation should always be conducted before receiving massages for a herniated disc.
Recommended Reading: We explored the idea that massages could actually cause pain and discomfort in our article on muscle pain after a massage .
Our goal, of course, is to prevent a herniated disc from occurring in the first place. So let's take a look at what you can do to achieve that.
Preventing a Herniated Disc: Exercises and Other Tips
It sounds like the Holy Grail and almost too good to be true, but regular exercise is essential for preventing a herniated disc. However, the fact that an active lifestyle isn’t always compatible with our daily routines often makes it a challenge and explains why so many people are affected by herniated discs after all.
Sports such as swimming, yoga, and Pilates strengthen the back muscles and promote flexibility, while allowing for gentle and moderate exercise. Targeted exercises such as the forearm plank or leg lifts also help stabilize the muscles.
In addition to exercise, choosing the right mattress also plays a crucial role. Unlike our beloved elephants, sleep for us also serves to relax and relieve pressure on the spine. But which mattress is best for a herniated disc? A mattress that supports the spine’s natural curvature and provides adequate support can prevent pressure points and relieve pressure on the spine.
What else should people with back pain keep in mind to prevent back pain and promote spinal health?
Take care of your back, and it will thank you for it
Unlike an elephant’s back, which requires no special care even while sleeping, we humans need to be particularly mindful. Our daily lives and the lack of exercise often associated with them place increased strain on our spines. An active lifestyle and targeted measures can alleviate the symptoms of a herniated disc and even prevent it:
- Regular exercise and sports strengthen your muscles and improve your flexibility.
- Further promote spinal stability with targeted exercises designed to prevent a herniated disc.
- A suitable mattress also supports the natural curvature of the spine and prevents pressure points.
- Professional massages and heat therapy can help relax the muscles and relieve pain. They are also an excellent complement to regular exercise.
We always recommend listening to your body’s signals and seeking medical help in a timely manner. The best strategy for a healthy back is to be proactive in strengthening your back as a preventive measure. Remember: An active lifestyle, along with increased awareness of your body and the time you should set aside for it, minimizes your risk of a herniated disc as well as numerous other health issues.
Cover image: Benjamin Wedemeyer; additional images: Helios.de, Stocksnap
Co-founder and Managing Director of Massagesessel Welt. With his expert knowledge and industry experience, he helps individuals and businesses find the right massage chairs for relaxation, health, and vitality. Personalized expert consultations are available by phone or video chat, as well as at the showroom just outside Stuttgart.
