Pain comes in a number of forms and from a large array of causes. One of the frequent questions we field at Republic Pain Specialists is in regards to herniated discs. We know if a patient is inquiring about this issue they are in a large amount of pain and can use the relief we provide, fast.

For minor cases, rest can allow the inflammation to decrease and for pain to be relieved. By allowing the body to completely rest for a day or two, you may be able to resume regular activities with controlled movements and rest breaks throughout your day. Pay particular attention to how items are lifted and your posture when sitting or standing. For repeat injuries, physical therapy, strength training, and some yoga activities can help strengthen weak muscles and train your body the proper way to move to decrease the amount of strain on the discs. Republic has several trusted groups we partner with to help evaluate if this option would work for you. Another non-surgical way we provide relief would be to consider an epidural injection to reduce inflammation and help the body heal. 

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the likelihood of a disc herniating again is 5-10%. Other factors that impact the chance of this pain repeating are being male, improper lifting, carrying excess weight, being in a field of repetitive movement, and having a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, “it is believed that smoking lessons the oxygen supply to the disc and causes more rapid degeneration.” We recommend to all of our family and friends to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular activity and exercise habits dispersed throughout the day and week. Also, in all fields, not just those with repetitive movements, consider looking at ergonomics to improve your comfort and productivity. 

There are many reasons why pain is lingering far beyond the usual recovery period with COVID. The attack on your immune system can cause inflammation and can lead to pain throughout the body. Additionally, many patients feel joint and muscle pain, which is common for a viral infection, but far beyond when they initially had COVID. There are a number of other neurological symptoms that are being reported that can feel like persistent pain such as headaches or a pins and needles feeling.

We have the resources to get you back to your regular day-to-day with non-opioid and non-surgical intervention. To assess whether we can help relieve your pain or to speak with one of our providers about a different type of pain you have been experiencing, please contactus today. 

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/herniated-disk-in-the-lower-back/