A herniated disc, also known as a prolapse or disc herniation (hernia = rupture), is caused by changes in the intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies. The intervertebral disc deforms, tears, and protruding/”prolapsed” disc tissue can press on the nerves emanating from the spinal cord (radicular symptom).

Signs of a herniated disc include severe back pain, neck pain (cervical spine syndrome), lower back pain (lumbar spine syndrome), or pain or radiation in the extremities. Numbness in the arms (brachialgia) or legs (sciatica), as well as paralysis (motor deficits), can also occur.

The cause of a herniated disc is often overexertion with a pre-damaged disc. In many cases, conservative treatment is possible; in more severe cases, disc surgery is necessary. To prevent a herniated disc, one should specifically strengthen the back and complete a special gymnastics and training plan. Furthermore, it is important to adopt a back-friendly position in certain life situations and to avoid long sitting positions and one-sided, repetitive loads as much as possible.

Herniated disc is one of the most common indications for SpineMED® therapy. The chances of success are very good with consistent therapy. The goal here is to relieve pain, create “space” (through mechanical stretching), and achieve sustainable disc regeneration (supply of fluid, oxygen, and nutrients).