Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine: symptoms, treatment and prevention. Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar - how to treat

Article publication date: 05/19/2015

Article last updated: 11/10/2018

A herniated disc is a pathological protrusion of the nucleus pulposus (jelly-like central part of the intervertebral disc), resulting from a rupture of the fibrous ring surrounding it.

Algorithm for the treatment of intervertebral hernia lumbar spine:

elimination of pain syndrome,

normalization of motor activity,

preventing further development of the disease.

To achieve these goals, traditional conservative methods and innovative non-surgical methods of treatment are used.

The conservative methods are:

• medicines,
• manual therapy
• physiotherapy,
• physiotherapy,
• acupuncture,
• massage,
• wearing a soft corset.

Read more about the methods of therapy and their application - later in the article.

The effectiveness of the treatment of lumbar hernia at home has not been proven, but some procedures can improve the patient's condition.

If conservative therapy does not bring the desired results, the doctor (vertebrologist or neurologist) can offer the patient a modern minimally invasive or radical surgical intervention. According to world statistics, there are no more than 10% of such cases: in the remaining 90% of cases, vertebral hernia can be cured without surgery.

Spinal hernia can be cured without surgery

Medical therapy

NSAIDs and painkillers are the gold standard

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and painkillers are the gold standard in the medical treatment of herniated discs. They inhibit the action of the enzyme, which is formed in the focus of inflammation and is responsible for the formation of a pain impulse.

Classical (non-selective) NSAIDs reduce sensitivity nerve endings and the intensity of the inflammatory process, improve blood flow. For quick relief of pain syndrome, patients with a hernia of the lumbar spine are prescribed ibuprofen, diclofenac, lornoxicam, indomethacin, etc.

Also, doctors widely use the selective NSAID meloxicam (Movalis), which patients tolerate better than others.

Selective NSAIDs act only at the site of inflammation and have little or no effect side effects to other organs. Non-selective agents lack these advantages.

When choosing a medication, the doctor takes into account the age of the patient, the presence of concomitant pathologies, and assesses the risk of developing gastrointestinal complications. The size of a single dose and the duration of administration depends on the intensity of the pain syndrome.

Muscle relaxants

Muscle relaxants are a group of drugs that reduce the tone of tight, spasmodic muscles. In combination with NSAIDs, they have a good therapeutic effect.

Examples of drugs in this group: midokalm, diazepam, sirdalud, tizanidine, tetrazepam.

Means that improve blood and lymph microcirculation

Means that improve microcirculation are mandatory for use in patients with hernias of the lumbar spine. They improve blood flow in the area of ​​damage and reduce swelling.

Local remedies: ointments, gels, compresses

At severe pain apply anesthetic ointments, gels and compresses with novocaine and dimexide.

Significant relief from infringement of the spinal segment brings novocaine blockade with the addition of corticosteroids.

Manual therapy

Manual therapy is a special "healing system" based on handmade manual therapist. The specialist acts on the affected areas of the body, works with muscle tone in the area of ​​the damaged vertebra - and thus eliminates muscle spasm and displacement of the vertebrae.

This technique is prescribed if the hernia of the lumbar spine is combined with subluxation of the vertebrae.

Physiotherapy

Therapeutic exercises are prescribed only after the symptoms of nerve compression have been eliminated and in the absence of pain in the affected leg (with lumbar hernia, pain usually spreads to the leg).

For each patient, the exercise therapy instructor develops an individual set of exercises, including smooth turns, tilts and rotations of the torso.

Sample complex.
Click on photo to enlarge

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is additional method therapy, which, in combination with other methods of treatment, accelerates the healing process.

When irritated biologically active points the spasm of the paravertebral muscles, which has arisen due to a change in the position of the damaged disc, is eliminated, and local blood circulation is restored.

Massotherapy

Massage stimulates blood and lymph microcirculation, relieves muscle spasms.

The procedure includes four main elements: rubbing, kneading, vibration and stroking.

Today, periosteal deep massage (or, in other words, myofascial therapy) is especially in demand. This is an effect on altered painful points and zones, which leads to irritation of highly sensitive periosteal receptors. With a hernia of the lumbar spine, the sacrum, the region of the pubic articulation, the ischium and ilium are massaged.

With hernias of the lumbar spine, hydromassage is very effective (water is supplied in jets high pressure). This procedure:

• stimulates the immune system
• reduces muscle spasm
• eliminates stagnation of blood in the vessels,
• normalizes blood circulation.

When using hydromassage, the functions of the musculoskeletal system are restored much faster and more efficiently.

Innovative methods of treatment of intervertebral hernias

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

With this technique, a neurostimulator is used, which produces weak electrical impulses. The device transmits impulses directly to the nerve endings spinal cord by microelectrodes implanted in the epidural space.

The epidural space is located between the dura mater of the spinal cord and the periosteum of the vertebrae.

Neurostimulator and electrodes implanted in the epidural space to stimulate the spine

Percutaneous laser decompression

This is a gentle method of treatment that allows using a microlaser to achieve a reduction in intervertebral hernia and reduce pressure on surrounding tissues.

In parallel, the laser, which acts on the spinal canal, restores collagen fibers cartilage tissue and tightens small cracks on the surface of the articular cartilage.

Chemonucliolysis

Chemonucliolysis is an effective innovative method for the treatment of hernias of the lumbar spine. Chymopapain, an enzymatic preparation that dissolves the nucleus pulposus, is injected into the damaged intervertebral disc. After liquefaction of the nucleus, it is sucked off, as a result of which the intervertebral hernia is significantly reduced.

A prerequisite for this fairly simple and low-traumatic procedure is the safety of the disc membrane.

Treatment of a hernia of the lower back at home

Two recipes:

(if the table is not fully visible, scroll to the right)

Conclusion

If you experience pain in the lumbar spine, do not delay the visit to the doctor, aggravating the development of the disease. A competent vertebrologist will help you find out the cause of your discomfort and prescribe an effective treatment.

Remember: a hernia of the lumbar spine is a complex but treatable disease that can be eliminated without surgery, which can lead to a number of complications.

Owner and responsible for the site and content: Afinogenov Alexey.

Treatment of intervertebral hernia of the lumbar at home includes 2 main methods. In the acute phase, it is aimed at relieving pain and stopping inflammation that occurs when the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc is destroyed. After the inflammatory process subsides, home treatment should be coordinated to prevent the next attack.

Help with acute inflammation

It is not difficult to determine a hernia of the spine. The disease has a number of pronounced symptoms familiar to many people. At an early stage, they manifest as pain in the affected area. It occurs after a heavy load, when lifting weights or sitting in an uncomfortable position for a long time, after which you have to get up abruptly. The pain goes away after a few minutes and may reappear in a similar situation.

As the disease progresses, back pain persists for a long time. It is often accompanied by pulling discomfort in the limbs (in the legs or arms, depending on the localization of the disorder), migraine and dizziness, temporary numbness of the fingers, hands or feet. They occur due to pinching of the nerves coming out of the spinal cord. Violations in the work of organs and pain force a person to consult a doctor. It is at this moment that the diagnosis is made, but the vertebral hernia is already quite large and requires treatment. If there is no pinched nerves, then it is carried out with medical methods.

Treatment of spinal hernia at home is best done on the advice and under the supervision of a doctor. He prescribes drugs to relieve inflammation and relieve pain (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, etc., diclofenac ointments). But it happens that it is difficult to get help from a specialist. For example, if the patient is in the country.

In such a case, you can independently relieve pain with these drugs. With a hernia of the lumbar spine, rest and bed rest should be provided for several days, while severe pain persists. It is necessary to lay the patient so that he experiences a minimum of discomfort.

You need to know that it is completely impossible to cure a vertebral hernia at home. But there are a number folk recipes how to relieve pain with a hernia of the lumbar spine.

How to quickly help with a hernia?

If there is a healing plant Kalanchoe in the house, then you need to remove the skin from the leaves and attach them to the affected area. The compress can be glued with a plaster. They usually put it at night so that the pain does not prevent a person from sleeping.

Fir oil has a strong analgesic effect. It is desirable to have it in the first aid kit in the country for first aid in such situations. The affected area is rubbed with oil, and then wrapped in warm clothes. Thanks to the irritating effect of the remedy, we get rid of inflammation, and painful phenomena quickly disappear.

Shilajit is a natural anti-inflammatory substance. To enhance the effect, it can be mixed with bee honey:

• 4 tbsp. l. honey;
• 5 g mummy;
• 1 st. l. warm water.

Grind mummy and dissolve in water. Add honey and mix well. Rub the resulting mass into the lower back. Carrying out the treatment of a hernia of the spine folk remedies, you can first rub your back with fir oil, and then with a mixture of mummy and honey. The oil dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow in the affected area, and biologically active substances from the therapeutic mixture penetrate the inflamed areas more easily.

The strong irritating effect of horseradish allows you to use it to cure an intervertebral hernia at home:

• skip the horseradish root through a meat grinder;
• mix it with an equal volume of raw potatoes chopped in the same way;
• add honey at the rate of 1 tbsp. l. for 1 cup of the mixture, stir.

Put the mass on the fabric, attach to the diseased area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe back. Wrap up in warm clothes. The compress should be kept from 10-15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the sensitivity of the skin. Add more potatoes next time if needed.

Village recipes with lard

Lard of domestic animals is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of intervertebral hernia at home. It is also used in its natural form, cut into thin slices and applied to the area of ​​the lumbar hernia, and healing ointments are prepared based on it:

1. Melted pork or horse fat (200 g) mixed with 4-5 tbsp. l. melted wax. Cool the mixture and rub it into the back, like an ointment for a vertebral hernia.
2. Marshmallow root can be purchased at a pharmacy or prepared independently. Take lard and beeswax in the proportions indicated above, and melt the mass in a water bath. Add to it 2 tbsp. l. crushed marshmallow root, heat for another 20-25 minutes. Cool slightly, strain through cheesecloth to separate pieces of root, squeeze. Alternative treatment spinal hernia with such an extract consists in rubbing the lower back or light massage with ointment. After the procedure, you need to insulate the inflamed area.

Fat-based ointment can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator, but not more than 2-3 months.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic decoctions

Many herbs have medicinal properties when taken orally. Folk methods treatment of a hernia of the lumbar spine include not only the use of external agents, but also the use of drugs based on such plants. The bark of willow, aspen, poplar contains salicylates related to aspirin.

These substances well relieve inflammation and have an analgesic effect.

Similar properties in the leaves and buds of birch, yarrow herb, thyme, St. John's wort, cornflower petals, calendula, hop cones and many other folk remedies.

Herbs can be used as part of a collection from a hernia of the spine. To do this, take the same amount of plant material different types and dry mixed. To brew healing tea, you need to take 1 tbsp. l. collection or herbs in 1 glass of water. Pour boiling water over raw materials and insist for 20 minutes. The decoction should be drunk during the day, divided into 3-4 doses. The drink may have a bitter taste if it contains willow or aspen bark. In this case, you can sweeten it with honey or sugar.

Other folk medicines

If the back hurts often and there are signs of a hernia, then in the country it is advisable to have funds on hand that can quickly help with the next attack. Oil and alcohol extracts of medicinal plants can be stored for 2-3 years without loss of quality. But you need to prepare them in advance.

It is used only externally for the relief of inflammation and pain. To prepare it, you need 300 g of plant roots and 0.5 liters of vodka or moonshine. Mix the ingredients and infuse the extract for 3 weeks, shaking the container once a day. In a similar way, a tincture is prepared from horse chestnut nuts, fruits hot pepper, comfrey and St. John's wort herbs. Ready-made folk remedies are used for compresses and rubbing in the treatment of vertebral hernia without surgery at home.

The oil extract is prepared as follows:

• 50 g of crushed comfrey root pour 0.5 l of vegetable oil;
• put the jar in a warm place or in the sun, leave for 1 week;
• after that, remove the container in a dark place and leave for another 2-3 weeks;
• strain and use for massage and rubbing in the treatment of intervertebral hernia of the lumbar with folk remedies.

Oil extracts are also made from St. John's wort, birch or cinquefoil leaves (fill a jar with fresh raw materials and pour vegetable oil). Insist according to the above algorithm.

Exercises for stretching and shaping the muscle corset

The muscular corset is the muscles surrounding the spine. They support the vertebrae in the correct position and perform a shock-absorbing function. If the intervertebral disc is damaged, gymnastic exercises for the back muscles are necessary both as a means of treating an intervertebral hernia, and as a prevention of the following exacerbations.

Treatment of an intervertebral hernia with folk remedies must be supplemented with exercises to stretch the spine. This allows to reduce pain syndrome: the distance between the bones increases, and pressure is removed from the nerve endings. Strength exercises develop the superficial and deep muscles of the back, forming a corset. Those who do hard work away from the city should know how to get rid of a hernia with exercise.

Start exercising at self-treatment should be done gradually, first doing stretching exercises. If the pain was managed to stop, then treatment at home can begin to supplement exercise therapy. It is important to remember that the exercises are performed at a slow pace. Neither stretching the spine nor other movements should cause pain.

Spinal traction

Stretching the spine with a hernia at home can be performed on the Evminov simulator. It can be replaced by a wide flat board, reinforced in an inclined position. At its upper end, you need to install a handrail, for which the feet usually lead. After that, the patient should lie down on the board and try to relax the back muscles. Under the influence of gravity, the distance between the vertebrae increases.

Extraction at home on the Evminov simulator is effective even without exercise. But as you recover from an acute attack, it is advisable to perform available movements on it:

1. Lie on your back, head to the top end of the board. Grab the handrail with your hands and stretch your socks as far as possible. Perform the exercise from 10-15 seconds (in the acute period of the disease) to 30-60 seconds (when the pain syndrome decreases). Repeat 3-5 times.
2. From the same i.p. raise straight legs, alternating them 4-8 times. If there is no pain, then exercises for a hernia of the spine should be supplemented with “scissors” or “bicycle”.
3. Raise both legs at once, tearing off the heels from the board no more than 10 cm. Repeat 4-6 times.
4. From this position, smoothly and carefully try to move your legs left and right, keeping them in the air. If pain does not occur, repeat the exercises for a hernia of the lumbar spine 4-8 times.
5. Lie on your stomach, hold on to the handrail. Raise your legs to prevent back pain. Do 4-5 repetitions.
6. From the same i.p. pull up to the handrail 2-3 times. The exercise is suitable to treat a hernia of the thoracic spine.

When a spinal hernia suddenly overtakes, treatment without surgery with folk remedies helps to stretch the back in the lower back or other department and with a simple hang on the horizontal bar. In this case, you need to grab onto a low crossbar and relax your legs. Stretching is performed within 5-10 minutes. You need to rise to your feet slowly, and lower your arms smoothly, trying not to hurt yourself. When an acute attack has passed, the hangings can be supplemented with leg raises, spreading them to the sides, etc. exercises.

Stretching exercises without a projectile

If there is neither a horizontal bar nor a simulator in the country, then the question of how to treat a vertebral hernia at home can be solved differently. The simplest stretching exercise is walking on all fours. It is advisable to perform it with an assistant who will support when lowering to the floor or lifting.

In addition to walking, Bubnovsky's gymnastics is also useful, which includes exercises on all fours. They stretch the spine well:

1. Having accepted i.p. on all fours, relax the back muscles. In this case, the head should droop, stretching thoracic region. If the back hurts in the lower back (an intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine has arisen), then you can shift the focus to this area by inhaling deeply with the help of the diaphragm (inflate the stomach). The muscles of the back and neck remain completely relaxed. Run 7-8 times.
2. From the same i.p. on the exhale, arch your back up, and on the inhale, bend in the spine. The pace should be very slow, without sudden movements. Do 10-20 repetitions.
3. Slowly bend your elbows as you lower yourself to the floor chest on the exhale. Inhale, and on the next exhale, start lifting on your hands, while lowering the pelvis. Repeat 5-7 times.
4. Standing on all fours, stretch forward, straightening your knees. Keep your back straight. Return to I.P. and repeat 5-7 times.

Sometimes the pain is so strong that it is impossible to even dream of any exercises. In this case, you can stretch your back in a different way. Lean your hands on the table and gradually lower your upper body onto it. The pelvic bones rest against the edge of the tabletop. Relax in this position, and then perform 7-8 diaphragmatic breaths, inflating the stomach. Carefully rise, leaning on your hands. In this way, get rid of back pain with lumbar hernia.

Back exercises

Treatment of a vertebral hernia at home should be supplemented with exercises that strengthen the muscles.

The physiological position of each vertebra will not only relieve the pain of an attack that has already occurred, but also prevent the further development of the disease.

It is difficult and time-consuming to treat a spinal hernia without surgery, but in some cases this is the only way out. And even after surgery, doctors usually prescribe exercise therapy to patients to strengthen the muscle corset.

A set of exercises can be something like this:

1. I.p. lying on your back, legs extended, arms to the sides. Turn your head to the left, raise your left thigh without causing pain, turn your feet to the right. The spine is slightly twisted in the longitudinal direction. Repeat 6-7 times on each side.
2. Place your feet on the floor, bending your knees. Legs spread as wide as possible. Lower your right knee to the left, trying to touch the floor. Turn your head to the right. Run 6-7 times in each direction.
3. In the same i.p. connect the legs and tilt them to each side in turn. At the same time, turn your head in the opposite direction. Do 6-8 repetitions.
4. Squat down, clasp your knees with your hands, pressing them to your chest. Slowly roll back on your back without letting go of your knees. Swing back and forth 2-3 times. Accept i.p. and repeat 5-6 times.
5. Lie on your stomach, stretch your legs and spread them shoulder-width apart, and rest your hands on the floor under your chest with your palms. Raise the pelvis and back slowly to the maximum achievable level, arching the back up. Straighten your arms. Lower the pelvis without touching the floor, slowly raise your head, tilting it back as much as possible. When performing the exercise, you can not endure pain. If it appears, postpone the exercise until recovery. If there is no pain, perform 2 times, and eventually bring the number of repetitions to 10-12.
6. Take a sitting position, put your hands on the floor behind. Bend your legs. Raise the pelvis to horizontal position torso. Repeat 6-8 times.
7. Lying on your back, pull your legs up to your chest and wrap your arms around them. Tighten the muscles of the legs, trying to straighten them, but continue to hold with your hands. Raise your head and try to touch your knees. Run 2-4 times.
8. Get on all fours and walk for 2-3 minutes at an arbitrary pace. Relax your neck and spine as much as possible.

By performing these and similar exercises for stretching and strengthening muscles, it is possible to treat an intervertebral hernia of the lumbar without surgery. They fit and how preventive measure so that painful symptoms do not appear and treatment with folk remedies is no longer required.

As soon as possible, you should visit your doctor. He will accurately determine the degree of development of the disease, advise on how to take the necessary medicines, or supplement the gymnastics complex with therapeutic exercises.

Content

One of the most common diseases of our time is a hernia of the lumbar. Pathology of the musculoskeletal system is diagnosed in men 30-50 years old, but periodically develops in women and young people. Illness requires timely diagnosis and therapy, because there is a high risk of severe complications. The last stage of the pathology (sequestration) leads to paralysis and atrophy of the muscles of the limbs. Treatment of a hernia in the lumbar spine involves conservative and/or surgical techniques.

Treatment of a hernia of the lumbar spine

The therapeutic scheme includes the relief of pain, the elimination of spasms of the vertebral muscles, ischemia of the spinal cord, its roots. In addition to this, the treatment of a lumbar hernia should be accompanied by the formation of a strong muscular corset, balancing the joints between the vertebral processes and removing their subluxations. To choose the correct and effective tactics of therapy, pathology is divided into three stages of development.

With acute initial stage disease, only conservative methods are prescribed. Among them, taking medication, physiotherapy, massage, exercise therapy, wearing a corset, and so on. The subacute and recovery periods are more dangerous for human health, as the hernia begins to increase. In this case, a surgical operation is performed. There are several types of it, which are selected specifically for each patient.

Medical treatment of intervertebral hernia of the lumbar

For the treatment of hernia, a number of medicines of different effects are used. Tablets, capsules, ointments help get rid of pain and restore the normal functioning of the area affected by the pathology. In most cases, drugs are prescribed for relief acute form diseases. Often use such drugs for a hernia of the lumbar spine:

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). They are necessary to reduce pain, eliminate the inflammatory process. The effectiveness of NSAIDs is based on a decrease in the level of histamine, which eliminates edema and slows down the development of pathology. Ibuprofen, Nimesulide, Diclofenac, Meloxicam, Indomethacin, Lornoxicam are often prescribed.

When nonsteroidal drugs are ineffective or do not have positive dynamics at all, the doctor prescribes hormonal (steroid) medications. They clean up great inflammatory process, reducing the function of macrophages and leukocytes. The most famous drugs in this group: Hydrocortisone, Dexamethasone, Diprospan.

Sometimes treatment with diuretics (diuretics) is prescribed. They are needed to combat edema with a hernia of the lumbar. In order not to develop a water-salt imbalance and hypotension, diuretics are rarely prescribed, in short courses. Apply Furosemide, Clopamid, Metolazone, Ethacrynic acid.

Muscle relaxants give an analgesic result, which relax muscles well, improve blood circulation and normalize normal nutrition affected tissues. Effective remedies: Diazepam, Mydocalm, Sirdalud, Baclofen, Tizanidin.

Tricyclic antidepressants are prescribed for a sedative, relaxing effect. As a rule, the patient takes Amitriptyline, Melipramine, Anafranil, Novo-Triptin.

To improve the nutrition of the affected tissues and blood circulation, use Pentoxifylline, Vasonite, Agapurin.

To restore the functionality and structure of the discs between the lumbar vertebrae, chondroprotectors are used. Cartilage tissue is restored due to drugs such as Chondroxide, Teraflex, Artra, Structum, Aflutop.

Alpha lipoic acid helps regenerate cell membranes nervous system, improves blood flow. For example, Berlition, Thiolipon are used.

Vitamins of group B are also prescribed (to normalize nerve conduction, restore compressed nerve fibers). Neuromultivit, Milgamma, Neurovitan, Neurobion are often used. Calcium, vitamin D increase metabolic processes in bone tissues, optimize neuromuscular contractility and conduction.

Massage

Comprehensive conservative treatment includes massage. It is necessary to stimulate microcirculation (blood, lymph), eliminate muscle spasms, and strengthen the immune system. The procedure should be performed exclusively by a qualified specialist, too intense impact on the area of ​​the spinal column can lead to negative consequences. There are several types effective treatment massage:

Water massage (hydromassage). By means of a strong underwater jet of water, the general well-being of the patient is improved, the symptoms of pathology are eliminated. Such a massage is considered the best for stretching the spine, relieving pressure from pinched nerves and pain.

Classic type used as a preparation before stretching the vertebrae or correcting existing problems. Usually, medical procedure consists of several stages: rubbing, kneading, vibration, stroking. Massage allows you to relieve pain and tension in the muscles, restore normal blood supply to the spine and tissues, and relieve swelling from the damaged area.

Cupping (vacuum) massage. It is often used because high efficiency and convenience. The procedure is carried out with classic glass or silicone jars. Vacuum massage actively enhances lymph flow and blood circulation.

exercise therapy

Therapeutic Physical Culture(exercise therapy) is one of the important components of the treatment process. Special gymnastics helps block the development of a lumbar hernia and alleviate general state. When the disease is at an early stage of development, then exercise therapy can cure it; at an advanced stage, exercises are well removed unpleasant symptoms. Before performing any complex and minimal physical activity, you should consult a doctor.

Exercises for lumbar hernia are best done under the supervision of an instructor. It is advisable to use a special unloading corset. Some effective exercises(do 10-15 times, not counting the first):

Get on all fours, straighten your arms and back. Go around the room several times without changing position.

Lying on your back (on a hard surface), do reverse twists - torso to the left, legs to the right, or vice versa.

The starting position is the same, only you need to sit on a soft surface. Pull socks up to chest right foot, then left.

Sit on a chair, feet shoulder-width apart. Place your palms on the lumbar region, keep your back straight. Slowly lean back and forth and left and right, while tensing the abdominal muscles.

Sit on your heels with your buttocks, put your hands on the floor in front of you, palms down. Bend the spine in the lumbar up, moving the upper limbs forward to the maximum.

Physiotherapy

Another addition to conservative therapy are physiotherapy. Such methods help to increase the level of regeneration of damaged areas. Physiotherapy is very effective in combination with medications, it helps to recover faster after a hernia and prevent the development of complications. Most popular methods:

Laser therapy– treatment with red and infrared radiation.

Electrotherapy- the impact of a small current on the body through the electrodes.

electrophoresis- the introduction of drugs through the mucous membranes or skin by means of a direct electric current.

shock wave treatment– impact on the body of acoustic low-frequency impulses.

Magnetotherapy- the use of special equipment with adjustable frequency of the magnetic field.

Paraffin therapy- the introduction of medicines using ultrasound a few centimeters deep into the body.

Acupuncture- treatment of hernia, by influencing active biological points.

Operation on the intervertebral hernia of the lumbar

In some cases, a herniated lumbar spine can only be removed surgically. There are a number of indications for surgical intervention:

Narrowing of the spinal canal.

Methods of conservative therapy are ineffective, the disease progresses, dysfunction of the pelvic organs develops.

The hernia significantly narrowed the spinal canal.

Squeezing the cauda equina (the end of the spinal cord, a bundle of nerves, the pinching of which causes severe pain in the perineum and lower limbs).

The main task surgical operation- This is the release of the lumbar region from a hernia. There are several types of such treatment:

Laser reconstruction. The laser vaporizes structures containing moisture.

Endoprosthetics. Removal of a damaged vertebral disc, its replacement with an implant.

Percutaneous discectomy- an operation in which its destroyed nucleus is removed through a puncture of the intervertebral disc. Then the core is replaced with a special substance, which must be cooled to obtain the desired properties.

microdiscectomy- excision of a small part of the vertebral bone tissue or intervertebral disc (annulus fibrosus), which is located above the nerve. This is necessary to stop squeezing the hernia.

Endoscopy. The surgeon makes three micro-incisions next to the spinal column. A camera is inserted into one of them, which transmits the image to the monitor. Through the remaining incisions, the operation is performed with microinstruments. Remove the hernia itself and its remnants.

Innovative Methods

To date, several innovative methods are used against intervertebral hernia. The most famous and effective of them:

SCS or spinal cord stimulation. The use of a neurostimulator that produces weak electrical impulses. The device acts on the nerve endings of the spinal cord through microelectrodes that are implanted in the epidural space (between the dura mater and the vertebral periosteum).

Laminectomy– percutaneous laser decompression. By means of a microlaser, a hernia is reduced and the pressure on the tissues adjacent to it is significantly reduced. Additionally, the device regenerates collagen fibers of cartilage tissues and eliminates small cracks in the articular cartilage.

Another innovative way to treat hernia is chemonucleolysis. An enzymatic medication is injected into the deformed disc, which dissolves the nucleus pulposus (the central part of the intervertebral disc). The liquefied part is sucked off, thereby reducing the size of the hernia.

ethnoscience

To enhance the effect of conservative therapy and for the prevention of hernia, recipes are used. traditional medicine. Before using herbal compresses, ointments, baths, infusions, you should consult your doctor. The duration of therapy is prescribed by a specialist. Some effective recipes:

First you need to gently rub the affected area with fir essential oil. Mix honey (200 grams) and mummy (2 g) dissolved in water. Lubricate the lower back with the resulting mixture, wrap yourself in a blanket or other warm thing. Perform the procedure before bed.

Bran (1 dessert spoon) pour purified water (400 ml). Boil 40 minutes. Drink a warm decoction of 250 ml three times a day. The next day, prepare a new fresh medicine.

Pour greens, rose hips in equal parts with boiling water (200 ml). Insist 30-40 minutes. Take 120 ml before each meal.

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The lumbar spine is the most common (80%) among the population type of localization of intervertebral hernias. Pathology often affects people of working age - 25-50 years. In the majority of patients, pathogenesis is a consequence of advanced osteochondrosis, as a result of which the discs between the lumbar vertebrae flatten and bulge. All this is accompanied by inflammation, swelling, mechanical compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord, which causes terrible pain along the affected nerves.

The disease is not only psychologically pretty exhausting, but also makes it impossible to perform normally, at times, elementary physical tasks. Thus, alienating a person from social, household and professional spheres of activity. In view of the high interest of patients in recovery, we have prepared a useful material on the main methods of treatment of hernias of the lumbar / lumbosacral spine, and what effect can be realistically expected from them. By tradition, first we will bring up to date on the specifics and stages of the disease itself.

What is a lumbar hernia?

The lumbar region includes 5 vertebrae (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5), between them there are intervertebral discs. Each disc is represented by a fibrocartilaginous formation, consisting of a fibrous ring (occupies the peripheral part of the vertebra) and a pulpous nucleus, which is located inside this ring. The fibrous element is a fibrous connective tissue, like a tendon, forming layers in the form of rings. The pulpous component is a cartilaginous tissue of a gel-like consistency, consisting of water (80%) and collagen fibers.

In general, the disk of any department, not only the lumbar, is primarily responsible for shock-absorbing functions, that is, it absorbs and softens the load on the spine at the time of physical activity. It also maintains optimal flexibility and support of the spinal system at every level.

A hernia begins to form due to progressive degenerative-dystrophic processes in the spine that have affected any of the elements between two adjacent vertebrae. In our case, between the lumbar vertebrae, for example, between the bone bodies L4 and L5, by the way, lesions at this level are most often determined. Also common localization is L5-S1, however, here the disc lesion is already stated between the last lumbar vertebra and the first sacral.

A traumatic factor can also contribute to the development of the disease, but the etiological basis is still more often precisely degenerative-dystrophic pathology (osteochondrosis). Disc degenerations are formed on the basis of impaired cellular metabolism in a particular spinal zone, due to which it experiences a nutritional deficiency. As a result, the intervertebral lining begins to lose moisture and become thinner, cracks form on the fibrous ring. The nucleus pulposus moves into the defect of the ring, deforming and protruding the disc beyond the anatomical landmarks. Then there is a rupture of the fibrous ring, through which the gelatinous fragment comes out - more often into the spinal canal. This is a hernia of the lumbar spine.

Types and stages of intervertebral hernias in the lower back

Pathogenesis is usually classified into types according to localization, nature and degree of protrusion. The localization of the focus can be fixed during the diagnosis at one or several levels at once:

• L1-L2;
• L2-L3;
• L3-L4;
• L4-L5;
• L5-S1.

As we mentioned earlier, the largest number of cases falls on the last two levels (about 90%). These areas suffer more often than others, since they are not only highly mobile, but also the foundation of the spinal column, daily taking on the bulk of the vertical load.

Hernial formations in the lower back, according to the nature of the protrusion, that is, in the direction of deformation relative to the zones of the spine, are of the following types:

• front- protrude anterior to the vertebral bodies (rare and clinically favorable);
• rear- directed to the spinal canal (often and one of the most dangerous, as they cause severe neurological pain and can compress the spinal cord);
• lateral- protrude laterally from the spinal canal, that is, from the side - on the right or left (also unsafe and widespread, infringe on the roots of the spinal cord passing through the foraminal opening);
• Schmorl's hernia- with them, the protruding cartilaginous tissue is pressed into the spongy structures of the adjacent vertebra, which can cause destruction of the bone body and a compression fracture (damage in the lumbar region is rare, and if it is found, then at least in the area L2-L3).

Schmorl's hernia on MRI.

The disease is also classified according to the severity, namely the clinical stage of its formation from the initial to the last stage.

1. Protrusion, prolapse (1 st.)- the beginning of development, the disc displacement is insignificant, usually from 1 mm to 4 mm. The fibrous ring is thinned, its layers have small cracks. However, the integrity of the rear part of the ring is preserved, so the nucleus that has shifted to the periphery is still within its limits.
2. Extrusion (2-3 st.)- a definitively formed hernia, as a rule, with dimensions of more than 5 mm. The fibrous rim breaks, the nucleus breaks through the through defect and hangs like a drop into the intervertebral space, being held by the longitudinal ligament. Depending on the size of the sag, which can reach 12-15 mm, extrusion at different people varies from moderate (5-8 mm) to severe (9 mm or more).
3. Sequestration (4 tbsp.)- critical degree, accompanied by fragmentation of the sagging element of the nucleus. The cartilaginous fragment (sequester) detached from the disk and nucleus in particular enters the spinal canal with possible migration along the anatomical expanses of the spinal system. Any stage of extrusion can precede sequestration, with the highest risk being those with a mass greater than 8 mm. The sequestration stage is fraught with paralysis and severe autoimmune reactions, in 80% -90% of cases it leads to disability.

An intervertebral hernia in the lumbosacral segments at any stage can cause damage to both the musculoskeletal complex and internal organs. Neurovascular formations passing through this area can be irritated, pinched by a deformed disc even at the stage of protrusion.

Symptoms and pain of a lumbar hernia

The first pains at the initial stage of development are largely due to irritation and excitation of pain receptors, which are provided with the outer layers of the fibrous ring. Impulses from the nocireceptors of the ring are transmitted to the spinal cord along the branches of the sinuvertebral nerve, which reflexively causes muscle spasm in the lower back and immobilization of the damaged section.

Sanogenetic (protective) mechanisms in the future, as the pathology progresses, are replaced by direct damage by a hernia of the adjacent spinal root and the corresponding nerve node. That is, there is already inflammation, swelling, mechanical compression specifically of the spinal nerves in the lower spine. The clinical picture gives rise to radiculopathy with a pronounced pain syndrome.

Symptoms of the disease can cause constant discomfort, sometimes unbearable. In some patients, it occurs from time to time in a more tolerable manifestation. Typical signs of the disease are:

• pain syndrome in the lower back in combination with pain in one lower limb (sensations in the leg are usually more pronounced);
• unilateral pain in one of the buttocks and the leg related to it (at the same time, right-sided and left-sided pain practically does not occur);
• a painful syndrome that appears in the lower back or gluteal zone, then spreads along the nerve of the sacral plexus to the thigh, lower leg, foot;
• paresthesia (numbness, tingling, etc.) in the lower limb, thighs, groin, buttocks;
• increased paresthesia and pain symptoms in a vertical position, during physical activity, at the time of sitting;
• decreased range of motion potential in the lower back, difficulty walking, weakness in the foot (drop foot syndrome), inability to lift or move the toes;
• violation of posture due to pain and a feeling of a block in the back, the patient therefore begins to stoop strongly;
• autonomic disorders in the form of blanching of the skin of the lower back and legs, the appearance of white or red spots in these areas;
• in advanced cases - urinary and / or fecal incontinence, persistent loss of leg sensation (possible paralysis).

Signs of pain in the last stages, as a rule, are of a sharp burning and / or shooting character with irradiation to the zones located below the lesion. In the early stages, a hernia usually produces an inconsistent blunt and aching pain in the waist.

Lumbar Diagnostics

Neurological tests and instrumental research methods are used to make a diagnosis. Testing for neurological status is done by a neurologist, orthopedist, or neurosurgeon. The specialist at the initial examination, based on the results of tests involving the assessment of muscle strength and tendon reflexes, may suspect the presence of a lumbar hernia. To confirm the diagnosis, the patient is sent MSCT or MRI examination.

Sometimes CT / MRI is preceded by radiography, which allows you to identify structural changes in bone tissues and narrowing of the intervertebral space that are characteristic of the pathology. But X-ray does not visualize the disc itself, the spinal cord, neurovascular formations related to soft tissues. Therefore, radiography can be used only at the first stage of the examination. It will make it clear whether there are structural and positional abnormalities in the vertebral bodies and whether the patient needs to be further examined using more informative imaging methods.

Magnetic resonance imaging is of the greatest clinical value in diagnostics. MRI qualitatively determines the condition of the discs, as well as:

• localization, nature, size of the bulge;
• ruptures of the fibrous ring;
• the degree of dislocation of the gelatinous nucleus;
• the fact of compression of the spinal cord and compression of the nerve ganglia;
• the width of the spinal canal;
• free sequesters;
• violations of the functions of the blood supply;
• all associated pathologies in the examined musculoskeletal area.

For the inability to undergo an MRI, the patient may be recommended multislice CT - multislice scanning of the lumbar region with x-rays. However, CT in any form is inferior to the capabilities of MRI in the reliability of the diagnosis, in the amount of information received on clinical picture, safe for the health of the patient.

The truth about the treatment of herniated lumbar discs

Do medications help?

Among the local and internal medications widely used in the practice of treating pain at the lumbar level, the following are known:

Any anesthetic medication that is taken cannot be used for a long time due to the negative effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, heart and blood vessels, and the hematopoietic system. Topical preparations in the form of ointments are more gentle, but do not have sufficient penetrating power to normally soothe the inflamed spinal nerve.

To live only on medicines alone, in every possible way avoiding an operation if necessary, will cost the patient dearly. This is a dead end, which inevitably leads to disability due to progressive hernia, irreversible atrophy of the nervous tissue, and additional medical problems to boot. It cannot be said that the uncontrolled use of drugs is addictive and, in some cases, a complete lack of effect.

Doctors often prescribe drugs from a series of chondroprotectors to patients. Chondroprotectors improve the nutrition of the cartilage of the disc, but again, if the disc is not yet critically deformed. Therefore, chondroprotective agents are appropriate for isolated osteochondrosis or protrusions of the intervertebral L-disks, in other cases they do not work.

The effect of gymnastic exercises

Is it possible to keep a hernia under control using special exercises for the lumbar region? Gymnastic exercises, in order to be beneficial, must be recommended by an experienced rehabilitation specialist who holds your MRI image in his hands and is fully familiar with your physical data and health status. The first course should be carried out under the watchful supervision of a doctor in exercise therapy. Independent testing of gymnastic miracle workouts from the Internet is fraught with an increase and / or displacement of the hernial mass into a dangerous zone with an increase in neurological deficit.

The beneficial effect of gymnastic exercises, developed individually for each patient, is to activate blood circulation in the affected area, strengthen and unload muscles, straighten the vertebrae and increase the intervertebral space. Regular, properly planned workouts help to reduce the frequency of relapses and improve motor capabilities. A good addition to exercise therapy will be classes in the pool under the supervision of a doctor-instructor in swimming and aqua gymnastics.

However, in the acute period, it is contraindicated to engage in until the signs of exacerbation are eliminated by rest and medication. In addition, physical impact (traction in particular) on the lower back with large hernias (> 8 mm), even with a therapeutic purpose, can do more harm than good. Therefore, experts emphasize that such patients, first of all, need to operate on a hernia as soon as possible, and only then engage in productive restoration of the musculoskeletal system and central nervous system through physiotherapy exercises.

The impact of massage

Massage tactics are aimed at improving tissue trophism (increasing blood flow and lymph flow, supplying cells with nutrition and oxygen), removing muscle tension, prevention of atrophy, reduction of pressure on the intervertebral discs. It is forbidden to contact them, as in the case of exercise therapy, during acute periods of illness. Massage and manual procedures are carried out strictly according to indications high level a specialist in neurology-orthopedics, since a hernia is different from a hernia.

Any reflexology should be performed very carefully and professionally, without jerking, twisting, excessive pressure on the spine, so as not to damage the weak disc even more and not to direct the protrusion in an unfavorable direction. It is undesirable for the same reason to use all sorts of tactics to reduce the hernia, the effect can be completely opposite.

There are many contraindications for massage in this area: volumetric protrusions (3 degrees), sequestration, hypertension, kidney disease, etc. Massage techniques, if they are not contraindicated, should be considered exclusively in the context of the basic healing process, and not as the only treatment. Massage, manual therapy are not a panacea, they will not cure a hernia without surgical intervention, but they can be very useful for a “young”, only emerging hernia. Massage has an invaluable benefit in restoring the spine after an operation that has already been performed.

Physiotherapy of the lumbar

Physiotherapy sessions are one of the constituent elements of preventive treatment. Physiotherapy will not lead to a complete recovery, it is also not in their power to reverse the destruction of the fibrocartilaginous intervertebral lining. But it is quite achievable to stop the progression of fibrocartilaginous and bone degenerations in the projection of the lumbar spine using physiotherapy. Remission is achieved by reducing swelling around the affected disc, restoring good blood circulation, and relieving muscle hypertonicity.

Electro- and phonophoresis, magnetotherapy, impulse therapy, ultrasound, laser therapy, electromyostimulation are standard procedures recommended in a certain combination for people with this diagnosis. How many patients have they helped to reduce or completely eliminate painful symptoms? The statistics are disappointing. Only 50% of people after full-fledged courses of lumbar physiotherapy note noticeable and lasting relief.

In about 10% of cases, physiotherapy does not improve or worsen well-being. And as many as 40% of people suffer a complete fiasco from physiotherapy, complaining about the appearance and intensification of pain. The thing is, physiotherapeutic methods are mostly based on the principles of deep heating of soft tissues or electrical neuromuscular stimulation. Such physiomanipulations can contribute not to the elimination, but, on the contrary, to an increase in edema on the inflamed nerve trunk, which provokes an increase in painful symptoms.

Complications and consequences of intervertebral hernia

Lumbar, lumbosacral hernias of the spine with improper and untimely treatment lead to a violation of the innervation of the pelvic organs, muscles of the lower extremities, an increase in neurological deficit. The most unfavorable consequence, more common by stage 3-4, is the cauda equina syndrome, which manifests itself:

• excruciating intense radicular pain;
• peripheral paralysis or paresis of the legs with a predominance in the distal sections;
• loss of all types of sensitivity and reflexes in the lower extremities and in the perineum;
• severe disorders of the functions of the sigmoid and rectum, urinary tract, male and female reproductive system(fecal incontinence, uncontrolled urination, impotence, infertility, etc.).

If at least one of the listed signs of damage to the cauda equina is detected, the patient needs neurosurgical treatment as soon as possible. No conservative tactics will save in this case! The prognosis for the restoration of nervous innervation and functional disorders will depend entirely on how much time has passed since the onset of the syndrome before the operation.

Conclusion

It is impossible to restore the integrity of the fibrous ring and reduce the size of the formed hernia with conservative treatment tactics. The symptomatology of lumbar hernias is difficult to manage conservatively in advanced stages, since the source of the painful condition does not go anywhere. In fact, there is not a single patient who, with such a serious diagnosis, would get rid of a hernia and its consequences without surgery.

A non-surgical approach can be justified only at an early stage, when the deformation is insignificant and has not yet led to a rupture of the connective tissue fibers of the disc, damage to the nerve endings. Only in the initial form is it realistic to achieve stable remission due to ongoing complex therapy regular courses throughout life. In other words, conservative treatment will produce a supporting preventive effect due to the stimulation of blood circulation and metabolism, which will slow down the destruction processes and prevent the transition of protrusion into extrusion.

On the penultimate and final stages conservative methods are losing their relevance. No matter how much they would like to, they will not be able to pull the hernia back, dissolve the sequester, and mend the torn ring. In this regard, all non-surgical methods are powerless. In the later stages, the maximum they can help is to reduce the intensity of the pain syndrome. And then, as practical experience shows, in isolated cases.

conclusions

• Conservative therapy cannot be an alternative surgical intervention, since it does not eliminate the hernia, but has only a symptomatic effect.
• For data clinical observations, at least 40% of patients treated conservatively have unsatisfactory results. After 6-12 months, they are operated on due to the ineffectiveness of the previous treatment or the developed complications.
• With a disease of stage 3 and stage 4, surgery is indicated (microdiscectomy, endoscopy). At stage 4, due to the high risk of irreversible damage to the spinal cord and nerve bundles by a sequester, an operation to remove the sequester and correct the disc is prescribed on an emergency basis.
• If a non-invasive approach for 1-2 tbsp. pathology within 6 months has not been successful in combating pain or progression is noted on MRI, it is advisable to consider a minimally invasive method of hernia removal (endoscopy, nucleoplasty).

The onset of symptoms of loss of sensitivity is a bad sign, foreshadowing the onset of paraplegia in the near future. In order to avoid a dramatic outcome in the form of paralysis, from which surgery does not save, it is important to undergo a neurosurgical operation within a limited time frame.

If a patient develops a herniated lumbar spine, treatment should begin as early as possible. The lack of necessary therapeutic measures leads to the fact that the patient may develop. What are the main symptoms of a lumbar hernia and how to effectively treat it?

Characteristic symptoms of the disease

Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine is formed much more often than in other parts of the spine. This is due to the fact that the lower back is under heavy load. It has 5 vertebrae, and all of them are interconnected by disks. Without them, there would be no normal depreciation of the vertebrae, they help to distribute the load normally on the entire spine. The disk contains a hard shell or ring, and inside it is a soft core.

When the annulus fibrosus is destroyed, a lumbar hernia is formed. The liquid core penetrates into the spinal canal. As a result, the nerve endings are pinched. In severe cases, compression of the spinal cord develops, if you do not help the person, then paralysis develops.

The signs of a hernia are as follows:

Hernia classification

Exist different kinds hernias of the spine, which are classified according to certain criteria. So, a hernia is primary if it develops in the spine after injury. Usually such a diagnosis does not cause difficulties. If a hernia is a complication of degenerative processes in the spine, then it will be secondary.

There is a classification depending on the part of the protruding section of the hernia beyond the vertebra. Allocate:

• protrusion - a hernia not exceeding 3 mm;
• prolapse - a protrusion up to 5 mm in size;
• the hernia is developed (its size exceeds 6 mm), in which case the disc ring is torn, and the nucleus comes out.

Depending on the direction of growth, the hernia is classified into:

• anterior (that is, the bulging is directed to the anterior side), such a pathology does not show symptoms and it is considered the most favorable for the patient;
• lateral (lateral) hernia - it can come out of the vertebral body, affecting the nerve roots of the spinal cord;
• posterior hernia - it bulges directly into the spinal cord, is characterized by the least favorable manifestation;
• or vertical spread.

The hernia can be:

• free (connection with the intervertebral disc is preserved);
• wandering (it loses contact with the disk where pathological changes and is able to move in the canal of the spinal cord);
• moving - it can either move or go back.

A moving hernia is the most dangerous because it can compress nerves.

The following signs indicate that the patient has compressed nerve roots:

• increasing weakness in the lower limb;
• urinary retention or incontinence;
• violation of defecation, sometimes loss of control over this process;
• numbness in the perineum;
• gait disorder.

If such symptoms of spinal damage are noted, treatment should be started as early as possible, without waiting for the disease to cause severe complications.

You should immediately contact a neurosurgeon in such cases:

• if the patient loses control over the process of urination;
• there is a sharp weakness in the lower extremities;
• a person feels that he is paralyzed.

Immediate surgical treatment is necessary in the development of cauda equina disease.

The danger of a hernial protrusion

A hernia of the lumbosacral spine is dangerous for everyone. Women run the risk that they may develop circulatory disorders in the pelvic area. This can lead to gynecological problems and bladder dysfunction.

Spinal hernias cause muscular tension. So the body seeks to maintain the position of the spine. If muscle spasms occur frequently and last for a long time, then a person may develop scoliosis.

The dangerous consequences of an intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine is that it can compress the nerve root. In a person, the sensitivity of the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin where this nerve sends its impulses decreases. Often people suffering from a hernia feel a backache. Sharp pain due to compression of the spinal nerve may not subside for several days. There may be other complications of the disease associated with impaired motor function.

The most severe consequences of intervertebral hernias of the lower back are as follows:

• movement disorders due to sharp pains and spasms;
• weakening, and sometimes complete disappearance of the knee jerk;
• violation of muscle sensitivity, their atrophy;
• paralysis.

Diagnostic Measures

Diagnosis of intervertebral hernia of the lumbar is necessary for the choice optimal treatment. First, the doctor collects an anamnesis, conducts an initial examination of the patient. He will be interested in symptoms that indicate that the nerve roots are compressed.

The following procedures are decisive in making the correct diagnosis:

1. MRI or. When diagnosing, a magnetic field is used that does not harm a person. The doctor receives detailed and high-quality images of the internal structures of the body. An MRI is used to determine the location of a hernia. This examination is also prescribed if the patient is suspected of having a hernia of the sacral spine.
2. CT or CT scan well shows the condition of the bones. This type of examination uses x-rays.
3. used to confirm previous diagnoses.

As needed, a person may be assigned other types of diagnostics. Everything will depend on his state of health and the prevailing symptoms.

Hernia treatment

In most cases, a hernia can be repaired without surgery. This can be explained by the fact that over time it "shrinks". The average time for such a process is from six months to a year. This process cannot be accelerated because it is natural. Typically, such conservative treatment of a hernia is associated with a set of measures that alleviate the patient's condition. The main components of non-surgical methods of treatment of intervertebral hernia of the spine include:

1. therapy. The patient is prescribed painkillers to help relieve pain. With severe pain, the use of stronger, narcotic drugs is recommended. Drug therapy cannot be permanent.
2. X-ray controlled blockade. Applies in cases where drug treatment not efficient. Under the control of an X-ray machine, a special needle is used to inject an anesthetic solution directly to the place where the nerve root is clamped. This procedure is performed only under local anesthesia. In half of the cases, this therapy can speed up the healing process. Even a neglected intervertebral hernia of the lumbosacral spine proceeds much easier thanks to these.
3. . It is used in the first month after an attack to reduce pain manifestations. Before carrying out such treatment, it is necessary to conduct a special diagnosis to exclude malignant tumors.
4. Injections at trigger points. Care should be taken not to damage the vertebrae during such injections.
5. Acupuncture can reduce pain in the spine.
6. Ultrasound exposure greatly facilitates the patient's condition.

If after 6 weeks of therapy pain remain sufficiently pronounced, the patient may need. It is necessary to prevent diseases associated with hernia. "Gold standard" surgical treatment- microdiscectomy. Performed using local anesthesia lasts no more than half an hour. The operation is minimally invasive: pain disappears quickly enough, and postoperative period is shrinking.

If the patient has no indications for microdiscectomy, then laser removal of the hernia can be performed. Such therapy is an alternative to conservative measures.

Pain relief at home

If a person develops a hernia of the lumbar spine, its symptoms can appear at any time of the day. Sometimes the pain is so severe that it is necessary to administer strong painkillers.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can significantly improve the condition of a person suffering from a hernia:

• Diclofenac;
• ibuprofen;
• Acetaminophen;
• Naproxen and others.

Bed rest is sometimes required to relieve pain. It is not recommended to stay in bed for more than 3 days. This leads to further weakening of the spinal muscles. The feeling of pain in such cases will only intensify.

In the first weeks after the attack, you can not do special exercises, and even more so play sports, which are associated with an increased load on the spine. Slow, unhurried walking will help normalize motor function and improve a person's condition.

Folk recipes

It is possible to treat such a disease at home using the method of traditional medicine. Before you start using them, you need to consult a doctor.

A mixture of birch, St. John's wort and comfrey oils helps in the treatment of this disease. It has anti-edema, analgesic, anti-inflammatory activity. She needs to rub the affected parts of the spine.

With a hernia, a compress is made from a Kalanchoe leaf. It is necessary to remove the film from it, attach it to the sore spot and fix it with a plaster.

Garlic tincture is used in the form of healing compresses (it is used in the form of a mixture of crushed garlic and alcohol). Compresses are made from it, which are placed at night. This type of treatment will be even more effective if such tinctures are alternated with turpentine baths. It is recommended to be treated in this way for a month.

Prevention of hernia development

Prevention of intervertebral hernia consists in the following recommendations:

1. Physical education. Regular physical exercises strengthen the muscles of the back, support the spine in the correct position, and normalize the nutrition processes of the disc. Performance exercise must be agreed with the attending physician. It is necessary to avoid strong physical exertion in the first month after the attack.
2. The key to hernia prevention is proper posture. It reduces the load on the musculoskeletal system. Especially carefully it is necessary to observe the correct posture during a long stay in a sitting position, when working at a computer.
3. Losing excess weight significantly reduces the likelihood of developing a hernia.
4. Smoking greatly increases the risk of developing a hernia. Therefore, competent prevention of such a condition is impossible without abandoning this bad habit.
5. It is also necessary to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

Lumbar disc herniation is a disease that cannot be ignored. If the first symptoms of damage to the spine appear, you should consult a doctor. The timely initiation of therapeutic measures helps to completely avoid surgical intervention and resume the normal functioning of the spine.