Our Services
|
|
|
The Different Treatment Approaches For A Herniated Disc It is always recommended to thoroughly trial conservative treatments before seeking surgical intervention for a herniated disc. Fortunately there are some different choices available that can be helpful in resolving disc pain and problems: PHYSIOTHERAPY Physiotherapy uses a variety of techniques to assist recovery of a herniated disc. These interventions include massage, gentle mobilization, ultrasound and heat. Physiotherapists are experts at prescribing exercises and will teach those that will be beneficial. Many of these will be based on Pilates exercises. CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractors are well known for their ability to perform joint manipulations through the body. However, forceful manipulations are discouraged when a disc injury is suspected. Also, a chiropractor cannot “pop” a disc back in. Chiropractic treatment for disc injuries often involves traction of the lower back and pelvis. This is usually accomplished by a traction machine or a special bed. Chiropractors trained in Clinical Pilates may also teach special exercises to stabilize and support the back. OSTEOPATHY For a disc injury, this may include mobilization, massage manipulation and exercise therapy. Osteopaths focus particularly on the inter-relationship between different body parts. For example, a disc injury may have been partly caused by a weakness in the hip and pelvis, and this will be thoroughly investigated by an osteopathic practitioner. Osteopaths also help to encourage blood flow and drainage of chemical irritants which can relieve pain. MYOTHERAPY Myotherapists are experts in the field of muscle and soft tissue (ligament, tendon, fascia) therapy. They focus their assessment on the palpation of different muscles to determine if there is a contribution from the myo (muscle) fascia (the thin sleeve of tissue that wraps around the muscle). Muscle spasm and tightness is very common in disc injuries, and can often refer pain into the leg. Myotherapists also utilize interventions such as ultrasound, TENS machines and cupping. WHAT TREATMENT IS BEST? As we are all unique individuals, what works for one person may not necessarily work with another. Of the treatments described, physiotherapy is widely recognized and accepted by western medicine. Chiropractic and Osteopathy are offshoots of western medicine dating back to the late 19th century but they are not overly supported by western medicine. Along with chiropractic and osteopathy, myotherapy is also considered a complementary health approach. HOW DO I CHOOSE A THERAPIST? Always choose a therapist that is registered with a professional body (such as the Australian Physiotherapy Association). It is important to find a therapist who really cares about you and your injury. Be wary of practitioners who refute the value of other interventions. All philosophies and sciences have something unique and valuable, and in a comprehensive treatment plan, this will be acknowledged by a competent therapist. Brighton Bay Physiotherapy happily
extends our services to patients including: We invite you to discover for yourself why so many people are coming to our Bayside Clinic. Whilst our centre is conveniently located in Bay St Brighton, we treat patients who come from surrounding suburbs of Melbourne too, such as Brighton East, Hampton, St Kilda, Elwood, Caulfield, Balaclava, McKinnon, Carnegie, Bentleigh and more. Bookings essential, call 9530 6353.
Article
By Natalie Szmerling. B.Physio
|
Brighton Bay Physiotherapy
4/75 Bay Street, Brighton, 3186 Victoria Brighton Bay Physiotherapy Home
|
