What is it?
Lumbar disc protrusion is when the jelly-like substance between one or several vertebrae bulges, causing increased spinal pressure.
Causes:
The three main causes typically occur from prolonged, forceful and/or repetitive movements including:
- Bending forward
- Sitting down with poor posture
- Lifting and/or twisting
Signs & Symptoms:
Moderate to severe, dull, central aching lower back pain. Associated leg symptoms can occur when severe.
Treatment:
Rest for the first 24 hours to reduce pain and pressure on the disc. From here, early education about pacing activity and manual treatment for pain is recommended, followed by a range of motion, core and functional exercises.
Prognosis:
6 to 12 weeks of intensive rehabilitation is typically required combined with appropriate medication, progressive core strengthening, and education for ongoing management.
If you need help with pain or immobility to get you moving again, or need a tailored exercise program, book in for your treatment now with one of our exercise, physio, or pain specialists via 1300 012 273 or head to our website and book a session at your nearest clinic.