How do you treat a bulging L4-L5 disc?
Nonsurgical Treatments for L4-L5
- Medication. Both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications are used to help relieve pain from L4-L5.
- Physical therapy. Exercise and physical therapy can be modified to specifically target pain stemming from L4-L5 and the lower back.
- Chiropractic manipulation.
- Self-care.
Is L4-L5 disc bulge serious?
Disc problems. The L4-L5 disc is at a high risk of degeneration. This risk may be due to increased loads at the L4-L5 motion segment and decreased movement in the segments below this level. A change in disc height due to degeneration may affect the lordosis of the lumbar spine.
What causes L4 and L5 bulging disc?
L5 nerve impingement (at the L4-L5 level) from a herniated disc can cause symptoms such as weakness in extending the big toe and potentially in the ankle, which leads to difficulty with the heel-to-toe motion in walking. This weakness is called foot drop.
Can a bulging disc heal itself?
Usually a herniated disc heals on its own. So most of the time nonsurgical treatment is tried first, including: Heat or ice, exercise, and other steps at home to help with pain and make your back stronger.
What should you not do with a bulging disc?
A person with a disc herniation should avoid heavy lifting, sudden pressure on the back, or repetitive strenuous activities during recovery. People should avoid all exercises that cause pain or feel as though they are making the pain worse.
How should you lay with a bulging disc?
The optimal sleeping position for a herniated disc is on your back. Lying on your back keeps your spine in a neutral position so you have less chance of pinching the nerve. For added comfort, nestle a small pillow or rolled-up towel under your knees and lower back.
How long does a bulging disc take to heal?
The primary question that comes to mind of an individual with a bulging disc mind is that how long will it take for the bulging disc to heal. For some individuals it may take up to a year or two to completely recover from disc bulge while it may take far less time for another individual to recover from the same injury.
How to treat bulging disk L5?
Treatment for a Bulging Disc L4/L5 – Cobra Pose. Only go as far as is comfortable – no need to get to full extension for a benefit! – Knee Rolls. This sciatica exercise is great for relieving any tension in tight muscles in the lower back. – McKenzie Side Bends. Start standing next to a wall. – Standing Extension. Start standing normally.
Should I have surgery for bulging disc?
For a lot of cases there is no need for surgery. Bulging discs can be treated more conservatively with rest, therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. However, if those methods have proven to be ineffective then the best solution is surgery. While a bulging disc is not a medical problem in of its own,…
Can you feel a bulging disc?
If you are experiencing symptoms of a bulging disc in the neck you will most likely feel pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the neck region. Sometimes these sensations may even occur in your shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers.