HomeAnswersSpine healthdisc bulgeWill physiotherapy resolve my bulged and desiccated L4 to S1 intervertebral discs?

Can physiotherapy treat bulged and desiccated intervertebral discs?

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Published At November 7, 2022
Reviewed AtNovember 14, 2022

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have had diffuse bulges of desiccated L4-L5 and L-S1 intervertebral discs with posteroventral focal disc protrusions and focal annular tear, indenting anterior thecal sac, causing mild to moderate spinal canal compromise, abutting traversing nerve roots, I have this problem for the past four months. Also, I take tablets Rexite plus and Uprise once a week. Three years back, I had a slipped disc problem, but it resolved with one month's rest. Do I need to undergo physiotherapy for this?

Please suggest.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

Kindly share your scan reports so that I can assess the severity of the disc bulge and advice you on whether you need to undergo physiotherapy or surgery. Meanwhile, I suggest you to follow the instructions mentioned below,

1. Avoid lifting heavy weights.

2. Avoid arching your back. Instead, bend your knees to pick up something from the floor.

3. Avoid sitting for a long time.

4. Avoid riding two-wheelers.

5. Pay attention to your posture while sitting and sit erect.

6. Try to get up from your chair every 20 minutes, take a quick walk, and then continue working. Always sit on a chair that has back support.

7. Do not get up suddenly from a sleeping position. Instead, turn to the side and then get up.

8. Take bed rest if you have severe pain.

9. Do hot fomentation on the affected area twice a day.

10. I suggest you to apply Oxalgin (Diclofenac, Menthol, and Methyl Salicylate) gel twice daily on the affected area.

Also, I suggest you to take the medications mentioned below,

1. Take the tablet Pregabalin (anxiolytic, analgesic, and anticonvulsant) 75 mg at night before food for ten days.

2, Tablet Ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) 400 mg. Take it in the morning and at night after food for ten days.

3. Take tablet Rabeprazole (antacid) 20 mg. Take one tablet in the morning and at night before food for ten days.

4. Take a tablet of Shelcal (Calcium) 500 mg in the morning and at night before food for 30 days.

Kindly consult a specialist, talk with them and take the medications with their consent. Also, only take these tablets if you are not allergic to them. And, do not take these medicines if you have bronchial asthma.

Kindly follow up if you encounter any adverse reactions.

In addition, do physiotherapy exercises like,

1. McKenzie back extension exercise.

2. Back core-strengthening exercises.

3. Glute strengthening exercises.

4. Passive straight leg raising exercises.

Initially, these exercises can be done under the supervision of a physiotherapist and then it can be learned and practiced at home. Also, start physiotherapy once the pain reduces, and only by practicing these exercises regularly good results can be observed.

I also like to add that once the pain reduces, engaging in activities like swimming, yoga, and walking can give positive results. And, activities like jogging, running, and weight lifting can aggravate back problems, so avoid them.

I hope this has helped.

Kindly follow up with your scan reports.

Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sharoff Lokesh Mohan
Dr. Sharoff Lokesh Mohan

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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