Phychiatrist Questions Physical Therapist

Is physical therapy good for disc hernia?

I have a disc hernia. Is physical therapy good for disc hernia?

3 Answers

Yes, physical therapy can be very effective for managing a disc hernia. It helps reduce pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. Physical therapy can often relieve symptoms as well as surgery, but without the associated risks and long-term consequences.
Physical therapy is a primary and effective treatment for herniated discs, often producing better results than surgery or pain medications. It includes a variety of techniques such as the McKenzie Method, which is particularly known for treating radiculopathy symptoms related to herniated discs. Physical therapists perform evaluations to assess symptoms and movement quality, and they tailor treatment plans that may include strengthening exercises, manual therapy, posture training, and pain management techniques like heat and cold therapy. While physical therapy successfully manages many cases of herniated discs, severe conditions might require collaboration with physicians for further diagnostic testing or treatment.
It has been shown to be more effective than surgery or injections.