If you’ve been diagnosed with a lumbar herniated disc as the source of your back pain and other related symptoms, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. After all, when it’s painful to get out of bed and you are finding yourself challenged to do even the most basic task, how are you supposed to do exercises? It’s important to understand that staying inactive and sedentary can do just as much, if not more, harm than overexerting yourself. 

For patients seeking long-term relief, performing lumbar herniated disc exercises with an experienced physical therapist can be a key part of a comprehensive treatment plan. To help you better understand the exact benefits you can gain from a targeted exercise program, take a moment to read the following easy-to-understand overview. 

We’re always here to answer your questions and provide more information — feel free to contact us anytime. 

Therapeutic exercise can help a lumbar herniated disc in these ways

A lumbar herniated disc occurs when one of the discs in the lower spine develops a rupture that causes inner disc material to push out into the spinal column. If displaced disc material puts pressure on a nerve, it can result in pain and other radiating symptoms. 

When combined with other treatments, targeted exercises can help relieve lumbar herniated disc symptoms by providing these benefits:

• Stronger core muscles — Herniated disc pain can worsen with increased pressure on the lower spine. By strengthening muscles in the core and lower back, this pressure can be relieved. 
• Improved blood flow — One reason why herniated discs are slow to heal is because of limited blood flow to the spine. Regular exercise, including physical therapy, can help increase the flow of healing nutrients to the discs. 
• Better body mechanics — Certain movements can also increase the stress on a lumbar herniated disc. Through therapeutic exercise, your physical therapist can teach you better posture and mechanics to relieve pressure on the spine. 

It’s important to be patient when beginning a physical therapy program that includes herniated disc exercises. No one sees results overnight as it will take time to develop muscles and see the benefits of better spine health. 

Lumbar herniated disc treatment with our caring experts

At Rehab Access Physical Therapy, we believe in giving everyone who comes to us for relief the individualized care they need to get back to a healthy and active lifestyle. If you’ve been diagnosed with a lumbar herniated disc, we’ll start with a full evaluation to help set treatment goals and recommend a plan that is right for you. To learn more and schedule your initial appointment, contact us today.