Prolapsed disc
A prolapsed disc (slipped disc) is when the soft part of the disc bulges through a crack in the hard outer surface, pushing on the spinal cord or on the nerve roots. A slipped disc in the lower back is most often seen between the ages of 30 and 50, more commonly in the lower back or lumbar spine and relatively rare in the chest part of the spine.
A prolapsed disc can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg. However, it is worth noting that 20 per cent of the population have slipped discs without experiencing any noticeable symptoms as the disc itself does not have a nerve supply.
It is not clear why some people develop a prolapsed disc and not others but there are various things that might increase the risk of developing a prolapsed disc such as working in a job that involves lots of lifting, sitting for long periods, weight-bearing sports, smoking, obesity and increasing age… which covers nearly all of us!
Osteopathic treatment can help with a prolapsed disc without the need to go to surgery or using any unnecessary medication. An osteopath can locate the prolapsed disc and reduce or correct the dysfunction in the spine, followed by working with a Pilates teacher to help educate, strengthen and prevent a recurrence.