Myth- Discs Can Easily Slip Out of Place

​The term "slipped disc" has become common usage. This is one of the biggest misconceptions people have about back pain, and the image this creates of what's happening in the body leads to further pain.  Discs don't slide out of position.  Discs are firmly attached to the spinal column by strong ligaments. Discs herniate rather than slip which is typical as we age. 

Randy A. Shelerud, M.D., who writes for the Mayo Clinic, teaches that "Disks act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine. They're composed of an outer layer of tough cartilage that surrounds softer cartilage in the center. Over time, disks dehydrate and their cartilage stiffens. These changes can cause the outer layer of the disk to bulge out fairly evenly all the way around its circumference — so it looks a little like a hamburger that's too big for its bun." 

If you are experiencing disc herniation, you may think rest is the best medicine. This is false. Studies have shown that most people have some degree of herniated discs but have no pain associated with this condition. Mild exercise is usually the best approach to back pain, including herniated discs.

Herniated discs can improve and resolve. Working with a physical therapist is one of the best ways to recover from pain. When you come to see our physical therapists, we begin with a thorough full-body movement assessment. We will determine if it's the herniated disc causing the pain or something else like how your hips or neck move. 

Too many people think that they will never be free of back pain; this is not true. Working with a physical therapist can resolve the pain you are experiencing. Give us a call today at 520-459-1386 or email us at notifyrpp@gmail.com with your questions.

We look forward to helping you avoid medications, injections, and surgery and decreasing your pain.