As we grow older, the health risks also increases. Health issues such as cancer, heart disease and extreme pain are generally considered part of the health risks we face as we age. Back pain is one of the most common health problems among Americans today and unfortunately, a lot of people struggle with the discomfort it brings.

Despite the fact that back pain is a frequent diagnosis, there are a sundry of different types, symptoms and even treatments. A number of back pain cases stem from herniatic disc. Quoting FamilyDoctor.org, “Herniated discs are most common in the lumbar spine–the part of your backbone between the bottom of your ribs and your hips. Discs are the soft “cushions” between the bones of the spine.” When your disc is pushed against a nerve, it begins to bulge and become very uncomfortable. Also known as “slipped disc”, the pressed nerve brings forth pain and sometimes, numbness, in the back and leg areas. Generally, the more you move, the more painful it becomes. Even the slightest movement from coughing or sneezing can bring on an excruciating muscle spasm.

Alternative Treatments For Herniated Disc

If you suffer from a herniated disc, there are several treatments that you can undergo. First off, exercise is a big help. While it is imperative to consult your physician before you attempt this, stretching can decrease the level of pain. You may consider other alternatives such as Yoga or Pilates; it improves flexibility as well as blood circulation. Medicine may also be prescribed, as well as a shot in your backbone.

Ineffective? If so, spinal decompression therapy could help. Widely known as the most favorable and non-invasive treatments, spinal decompression therapy can address herniated discs, Sciatica including pinched nerves. The procedure involves lying on a table with a connected strap hooked to a computer. The computer sends the signal that puts pressure to the spine stretching the discs apart to enable blood and oxygen to flow back into the spine. This is otherwise known as a “vacuum effect,” since the pressure creates suction.

Spinal decompression therapy is painless contrary to what others perceive. Most patients report improvement on their backs; the level of discomfort is significantly reduced and muscle spasms are minimized. The therapy enables the disc to stretch and become flexible; this marks the start of the healing process. Much cheaper than spinal decompression surgery, this treatment requires the patient to undergo 4-5 sessions per week for a minimum of twenty sessions. By the end of the process, the majority feel as if they have either been cured or significantly helped.

The case of herniated discs is not an unusual problem for millions of people worldwide. It can be a disappointing experience since it can hamper your mobility and your normal routine. You no longer can take that daily walk or go swimming with friends – everyday is a pain day experience. With alternative treatments such as yoga or spinal decompression therapy, herniated discs no longer have to be your death sentence. These treatments will alleviate the discomfort, minimize the constant symptoms and bring back your confidence, allowing you to truly focus on what is important. Trust us, pain doesn’t have to be forever.