Health

Conditions | Herniated Disk

Herniated disks, sometimes called slipped or ruptured disks, are a frequent cause of back pain. They often cause not only pain, but also numbness or weakness in the back, legs or arms.

Learn More About Herniated Disks

Need to know more about how mysofacial pain will affect you or someone you care for? Learn all the basics of a herniated disk and what it does:

     » Introduction to Herniated Disk
     » The Signs of a Herniated Disk
     » What Causes a Herniated Disk?
     » Treatments for Herniated Disks

Features on Herniated Disks

Aging Athletes: Changing the Way We Play

In this age of increasing lifespan, it’s important to make your late years good ones. Staying active can increase your health and make those last years amazing.

» Read More

Live Forward with a Herniated Disk

Talking About Pain—So Your Doctor Understands

Talking to your doctor can be overwhelming, especially when it’s about pain. Find out how to tell your doctor how you’re feeling.

» Read More

Show All Sections

Self-Care

by MayoClinic.com

Standard conservative treatment for a herniated disk is to limit your activity, apply cold and heat, and do careful exercises to build back your strength and flexibility. Specific core-strengthening exercises are designed to condition the trunk muscles and stabilize the spine. Your doctor may recommend exercises such as the bridge position, which works many of the core muscles in combination. To perform the bridge position:

Lie on your back with your knees bent. Keep your back in a neutral position — not overly arched and not pressed into the floor. Avoid tilting your hips up.
Cough to activate your core muscles. Holding the contraction in your abdominal muscles, raise your hips off the floor.
Align your hips with your knees and shoulders. Hold this position and take three deep breaths — or for about five to eight seconds.
Return to the start position and repeat. For a challenge, try alternately extending one knee while maintaining the bridge position.

It is important to follow your treatment plan closely. Let your doctor know if you're unsure of any part of the plan, or if you need additional information to perform the recommended self-care activities.

2006-12-20

© 1998-2008 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Reliable tools for healthier lives," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Terms of Use

« Previous Section

Next Section »

Newest | Popular