Physical Therapy for Disc Herniation

Statistics show that 80% of the world’s population will experience lower back pain at least once in their life. Disc herniation is one of the most common causes of this pain.

What is a vertebral disc?

The vertebral disc is located between the vertebrae and functions as a shock absorber. It consists of two parts:

• Anulus fibrosus — the outer fibrous ring that provides structure
• Nucleus pulposus — the inner gel-like core that absorbs pressure

Pinched nerve vs. disc herniation

It is important to distinguish between these two conditions:

• Pinched nerve — the nerve is compressed by bone structure or tissue
• Disc herniation — the nucleus pulposus breaks through the anulus fibrosus and presses on the nerve

Stages of disc herniation

1. Degenerative changes

Initial stage — the disc begins to lose water and elasticity. No herniation yet, but the disc becomes smaller and less resilient.

2. Prolapse (Protrusion)

The nucleus pulposus presses against a thinned but still intact anulus fibrosus. Pain may be present.

3. Extrusion

The nucleus pulposus breaks through the anulus fibrosus but remains connected to the disc. This is classic disc herniation with strong symptoms.

4. Sequestration

Part of the nucleus pulposus has completely broken off and is free in the spinal canal. The most severe stage — may require surgical treatment.

What are the symptoms of disc herniation?

• Pain radiating along the nerve (radiculopathy)
• Tingling and numbness in the leg or arm
• Muscle weakness
• In severe cases — problems with bladder or bowels

Can disc herniation heal on its own?

In many cases, yes. Studies show that in 90% of patients, symptoms resolve within 6 weeks without surgical intervention, with appropriate physical therapy.

Physical therapy for disc herniation

Our team uses a combination of the following methods:

• Spinal decompression — mechanical traction that reduces pressure on the disc
• Manual therapy — spinal segment mobilization
• Dry needling — relaxation of paraspinal muscles in spasm
• TENS electrotherapy — pain reduction
• Ultrasound — improving tissue circulation and metabolism
• Laser therapy — accelerating healing
• Kinesiotherapy — core and spinal stabilizer strengthening exercises

The key to success is early intervention and an individualized approach to each patient.