How To Fix A Herniated Disc?

So what is a herniated disc you may ask? Well, let's go back to a bit of anatomy about discs, specifically lumbar discs, because they are easier to understand.

Basically there are 2 parts to a lumbar disc. There is the inner jelly-like part called the nucleus and then there is the tough outer part called the annulus. The discs in the lumbar or lower back area are described in text books as a shock absorbers. They take the weight of the body because they are located in between the lumbar vertebral bodies, contribute to the height of the spine and are very important for the overall movement of the spine.

Because our lifestyles involve a lot of sitting and bending this means the posterior or back section of the annulus can develop fissures or small tears in it. This then creates an opening for the jelly-like nucleus to move into. Depending on the length of the fissure in the annulus, the nucleus can move a little or a lot.

Now the outer 1/3 of a lumbar disc has a nerve supply which means if the fissure in the annulus extends into this section it can become painful. If the nucleus moves down into this fissure it can then causes more pain...

So how can you relieve the stress and strain placed on the posterior section of the annulus and stop the fissures in the first place? Well, basically it is all about posture. The lower back has a natural curve or hollow. It is very important to sit tall and place a rolled towel or McKenzie lumbar roll in the small of the back. You need to place the roll basically at your belt or waist level. If you can use a roll most of the time this will take the stress and strain off the back section of the disc and prevent a tear or herniated disc developing in the first place.