The demands of the modern lifestyle requires us to be always on our feet. We hardly slow our pace and attend to some minor life obstacles. We overlook minor ailments such us common cold, sore throat and even a toothache. There are just not enough hours in the day to solve all of these problems. But for those who are experiencing back pains and at the same time, continuously neglecting it, the risks may inevitably worsen . Extreme pain emanating from a herniated disc can be enervating. The spasms and aches from the crushed nerves feel as if with one step,  it will all be over. How does one cope with such a painful barrier? After treatment, does it enable one to resume doing normal activities? The following question and answer discussion endeavors to illuminate some of the basic issues about the subject.

What is herniated disc and what are the risk factors?

A disc becomes herniated when it is pressed against nerve endings. This pressure can spawn into an excruciating pain that could lead to numbness and stinging feeling. While there are dozens of different causes, a herniated disc usually derives from old age. Age is one contributory factor that weakens the discs in our spine causing it to lose some of its cushion. The effect is that the disc may be subjected to tear, forcing the nucleus to push through and end up putting pressure on the nerves. Sport related injuries and lifting weights incorrectly are just a few additional reasons why many people experience a herniated disc at least once in their lifetime .

What are the associated signs?

People afflicated with herniated discs experience pain in the back and leg portion. The pressure applied on the nerve seem to cause tingling, numbness, shooting pain and sometimes muscle spasms.

Is there a way to stop it from recurring?

Although the occurrence is inevitable, you can minimize the possibility of sustaining an injury. Make sure to exercise daily and do some stretching before you warm up. Most importantly, avoid smoking and if you are a smoker, try to kick the habit as early as you can. Such unhealthy habits increases the risk of disc degeneration. If you lift heavy objects, pay attention to your posture. Make sure that you use your knees rather than your back.

How is a herniated disc treated?

The most effective treatment for a herniated disc is spinal decompression therapy. Surprisingly, this treatment is non-surgical, non-invasive and much cheaper than most procedures. The treatment procedure underscores the application of pressure to your spine. The procedure entails stretching the discs to allow the blood supply and other important nutrients to circulate into the spine. Once the disc regains flexibility, healing begins and the occurence of muscle spasms are reduced. Spinal decompression therapy is perfect for a herniated disc because the treatment itself is pain-free. The procedure requires you to lie on a table  and have to be hooked to a strap which is the source of pressure to your spine. While 4-5 sessions are required per week for up to twenty sessions, patients find that spinal decompression therapy gives them a second chance at life. They can actually focus on more important things, rather than being stuck on the couch in debilitating pain. Finally a big sigh of relief because a reliable treatment is available.