What can be done for the pain and numbness associated with disc disease?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read you query and understand your concern.

Based on the X-ray findings, it appears that there is a bulging of the disc towards the back of the spine. This bulging can be visualized due to calcification on the X-ray. Degenerative facet changes mean that the joints in your spine, known as facets, have experienced some roughening. This is due to the cartilage on the facet joints wearing down, which can lead to pain.

To address your condition, I would suggest you consider the following steps:

1. Avoid lifting heavy weights.
2. Instead of arching your back, bend your knees to pick things up from the floor.
3. Avoid prolonged sitting.
4. Avoid rides on two-wheelers.
5. Improve your sitting posture. Make sure your chair has good back support.
6. Take short walks every 20 minutes when sitting for extended periods.
7. When getting up from sleep, turn to your side before standing up.
8. Rest in bed if the pain is severe.
9. Apply hot compresses locally over the affected area at least twice daily.

In addition, I suggest you take the following medications:

1. Pregabalin 75 mg tablet - Take a tablet before breakfast and dinner for 10 days.
2. Ibuprofen 400 mg tablet - Take one tablet after breakfast and dinner for 10 days.
3. Rabeprazole 20 mg tablet - Take a tablet before breakfast and dinner for 10 days.
4. Shelcal (Calcium) tablet 500 mg - Take one tablet before breakfast and dinner for 30 days.
5. Vitamin D 60 K Units tablet - Take one tablet daily for 10 days, then once a month for 11 months.
6. Apply Oxalgin (Diclofenac sodium, Methyl salicylate and Menthol) gel locally twice daily.

Consult your specialist doctor, talk to them, and then take the medications as per their advice.

Please take these tablets only if you are not allergic to them. If you have bronchial asthma, do not take these tablets. If you experience any adverse reactions, seek immediate medical attention.

I would also suggest you incorporate physiotherapy exercises into your routine, such as:

1. Back core strengthening exercises.
2. Glutei strengthening exercises.
3. Passive straight leg raising exercises.

Initially, these exercises can be done under the supervision of a physiotherapist, or you can learn to do them at home. Start physiotherapy once your pain reduces, as consistent exercises are crucial for positive outcomes.

After your pain subsides, consider the following activities:

1. Swimming.
2. Yoga.
3. Walking.

However, avoid jogging, running, and weight-lifting, as they could worsen your back problems.

This professional advice provided by me stands subject to the actual examination of report or image (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) and is based entirely on inputs provided to me. It should be correlated with clinical findings.

Hope this information helps you.

Thank you.