Lumbar herniated discs are a common spine condition that can cause significant pain and disability. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help prevent a lumbar herniated disc from developing in the first place. In this post, we will discuss some of the most effective methods for preventing a lumbar herniated disc.
1. Exercising regularly: One of the best ways to prevent a lumbar herniated disc is to exercise regularly. Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, which can help to prevent a disc from becoming herniated. Chiropractic is also an effective way to prevent a herniated disc. It also works by realigning the spine and correcting any subluxations. This takes the pressure off of the discs and allows them to function properly.
2. Maintaining a healthy weight: Slipping a disc is often seen as a sign of aging, but it can happen to anyone. When the gel-like center of a disc bulges out through a tear in the outer ring, it’s called a herniated disc. This can put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves that branch out from it and cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs or arms. Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the spine, which can lead to a herniated disc.
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing a lumbar herniated disc. If you are struggling to maintain a healthy weight, chiropractic care can help.
3. Wearing supportive shoes: One of the most common causes of lower back pain is a lumbar herniated disc. This occurs when the gel-like center of the disc ruptures and puts pressure on the nerve root. While there are many potential causes of this condition, one of the most preventable is wearing shoes that provide insufficient support.
Shoes with a low heel and good arch support help to distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on the spine. In addition, they provide shock absorption to cushion the impact of each step. As a result, wearing supportive shoes can be an effective way to prevent a lumbar herniated disc.
4. Avoiding high-impact activities: Activities that involve high impact, such as running or jumping, can put extra strain on the spine and lead to a herniated disc. If you have a lumbar herniated disc, it is important to avoid these types of activities.
5. Practicing good posture: Maintaining good posture helps to take the pressure off of the discs in the spine. When sitting, be sure to keep your back straight and your shoulders rolled back. When standing, keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
6. Using proper lifting techniques: When lifting something heavy, be sure to use proper lifting techniques. Avoid bending forward at the waist, which puts extra strain on the spine. Instead, bend at the knees and keep the object close to your body.
7. Quitting smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for developing a lumbar herniated disc. This is because smoking decreases blood flow to the discs in the spine, which can cause them to degenerate. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your spine’s health.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent a lumbar herniated disc from developing. However, if you are already experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
