Our spines provide the framework to support and protect our central nervous system and internal organs. Thus, it is essential to take good care of it to avoid developing conditions like herniated disks. This condition occurs when the jelly-like center of the disk is pushed out of its rubbery exterior. It is often due to wear and tear damage.
A herniated disk can irritate nearby spinal nerves, resulting in weakness, pain, and numbness in your arms and legs. It can also lead to complications such as bladder and bowel dysfunction that can significantly affect your quality of life. To avoid these from occurring, there are the steps you can take to prevent a herniated disk.
Check Your Family Health History
Genetics is one of the risk factors of herniated disks. Some patients may have inherited this condition. Check your family’s health history to help you prepare and take appropriate measures to prevent it from developing.
Exercise
The spine is supported by your trunk, abdominal, and back muscles. With weak muscles, support will have to come from your spine. Excessive stress to your spine may cause the rupture of your disks. Provide sturdier support for your spine by toning and strengthening the core muscles by exercising regularly
Moreover, excess body weight is also a risk factor of ruptured disks. With regular exercise and physical activity, you can shed the excess weight, thus unloading the extra pressure on your spine.
Maintain Good Posture
Having poor posture and carrying heavy objects resultin more pressure to your spine. Keeping your back, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles aligned and straight, especially if you are seated for a long time, distributes your body weight evenly. This decreases the strain on your back and reduces the risk for shoulder, neck, and back pain.
Additionally, instead of bending at your torso or back, use your legs to lower yourself when picking up objects. If you work in a labor-intensive industry and regularly lift heavy loads, try to improve your lifting techniques.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Carrying heavy objects also includes carrying your body mass. Ensuring that you are maintaining a healthy weight helps decrease the pressure it exerts on your spine.
Likewise, it’s also essential to follow a nutritious and balanced meal plan to stay fit. You should also drink an adequate amount of water every day and try to stay off junk food. Because a healthy diet helps you achieve a healthy weight, it would not only help you avoid herniated disks but also decrease your risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension.
Avoid Smoking
Studies have shown that smoking can cause herniated disks. It is associated with an increased rate of disk degradation. The nicotine in cigarettes contributes to the decreased production and proliferation of disk cells. Smoking also reduces the exchange of nutrients between blood vessels and spinal disks.
Herniated Disk Treatment in Plantation, FL
Gradual disk degeneration is often the cause of a herniated disk. As the spinal disks become less flexible, they also become more susceptible to injury. Despite the risk brought about by the natural aging process, you can still be proactive and take measures to prevent developing herniated disks. It involves being aware of the risk factors and switching to a healthier lifestyle.
If you feel any symptom associated with this condition, it’s best to consult your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and receive proper treatment. Here at Baylis & Brown Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating patients with conditions affecting the bones, muscles, joints, and ligaments. Our clinic offers a range of services for varied patient needs.
To consult with our providers, you may call our office at (954) 476-8800 or set an appointment online.
