Herniated disk
The spinal column, also known as the rachis, is a complex structure in the human body that forms part of the axial skeleton and forms the central part of the body. It is made up of 33 smaller units called vertebrae: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral and 4 coccygeal. The vertebrae have a canal at their posterior end, through which the nervous system passes, innervating various structures for sensation and movement. Between consecutive vertebrae lie the intervertebral discs, cushion-like structures whose main function is to act as shock absorbers, keeping the spine mobile and fluid.
A herniated disc is a condition of the spine in which the nucleus pulposus (the nucleus of the disc) is displaced from the intervertebral space. Disc injuries can occur as a result of repetitive stress over time, or following a high-energy traumatic event. Depending on the specifics of the condition, patients may present with a wide range of symptoms, from no symptoms at all to severe low back pain and neurological symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, weakness, etc.).
In addition to gathering information on the mechanisms of injury and physically examining the patient, an imaging examination is often performed to optimally visualize the specifics of the injury.
Depending on the severity of the condition, very different treatment strategies may be implemented. Conservative treatment is generally the first line of therapy, including rehabilitation, education and pharmacological intervention (e.g. drugs, injections, etc.). In more severe cases, where surgical treatment is deemed necessary, several procedures may be considered depending on the patient's needs, always discussed between the patient and the medical-surgical team.
At Foxphysio, after an in-depth consultation with one of our specialist doctors, your recovery process will be structured in different stages and will take place in four environments: swimming pool, gym, movement analysis and re-training room, and finally on the field. As with all other pathologies, a holistic approach (bio-psycho-social), focused on your needs, will be implemented.
In the initial stages, the main aim of rehabilitation is to minimize the symptoms associated with the condition. Mobility recovery and muscle activation are generally progressed while maintaining spinal stability. In the intermediate stage of rehabilitation, priority is given to regaining strength and stability of the trunk and upper/lower limbs.