Disc Injuries

Disc injuries can happen anywhere in the spine but are more common in the low back and the neck.

Herniated discs (often referred to as prolapsed, slipped, bulged, or ruptured) can happen due to acute or sudden injury such as bending down to lift up a heavy object, overuse, or aging. Disc injuries can cause nerve pain in the limbs and may feel similar to “pins and needles” or burning. Disc pain can also be felt as dull or sharp. Our practitioners at Abbotsford Sports & Orthopaedic Physiotherapy are trained to assess to determine if you are experiencing a disc injury and provide treatment. We offer lumber and cervical traction that can significantly improve symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of a disc injury include: 
  • low back or neck pain
  • numbness or tingling down a lumb
  • sharp or achy dull pain 
  • pain and numbness in a limb after bending over or lifting up an object
  • muscle weakness 
  • difficulty walking 
  • difficulty sleeping due to pain
  • muscle spasms and tension
  • radiating pain into the shoulder, glute, or foot 
Treatment options:
  • manual therapy & manipulation 
  • patient education – activities to avoid, exercises that may help relieve symptoms, postural assessment and education 
  • Soft tissue release therapy 
  • craniosacral therapy 
  • exercise rehabilitation & home exercise programs 
  • Intramuscular Stimulation 
  • Cervical & lumbar traction 
  • Shockwave therapy
  • LASER therapy,  Ultrasound
  • lumbar or cervical traction
  • electrotherapy 
  • cryotherapy/ heat therapy 
  • instrument assisted soft tissue release
  • kinesiology