What makes a herniated disc worse?

Here are some every day things that can be avoided, but will aggravate your injury. If you are in the midst of a herniated disc injury or are on the road to recovery, it is important to be aware of your posture.

Avoid soft furniture that you will sink into, or furniture that sits low to the ground. It may look ultimately comfortable and inviting, but it is not offering any support for you spine and is actually encouraging an unnatural positioning of the body that will harm you in the long run.

Sleeping on your stomach is very hard on the spine and its associated muscles. If you must do it, use an extremely soft pillow or no pillow at all to avoid raising the neck at an angle.

Addressing inactivity

If possible, when standing in the same position for long periods of time, alternate putting each foot up on a stool or box every few minutes.

If sitting for a long period of time, use a footrest or stool to keep the knees above a little above the hips.

Exercise

For avid gym-goers, avoid the following exercises while in the healing process for a herniated disc:

  • Weightlifting
  • Leg presses
  • Twisting exercises

All of these can aggravate the problem. Instead, focus on these exercises:

  • Core-strengthening
  • Aerobic exercise
  • Stretching and flexibility exercises that help to relieve pressure on nerves.

These are exercises that offer benefit to everyone suffering from back-related conditions, and those who are looking to strengthen the back muscles. At Family Chiropractic & Spinal Health Care Center in New Jersey, we can show you exactly how these exercises treat the herniated disc injury. Let’s talk today: Call our Passaic office at (973) 471-9585 or our Ramsey office at (201) 995-9900.

Dr. Moe Abtahi, D.C.

 

Nutrition and Herniated Discs

nutrition and food

Good spinal health begins with good nutrition. No matter the degree of pain you are experiencing, providing your body with good nutrients is a simple and overlooked way that you can make a positive difference in your spinal health. At Family Chiropractic & Spinal Health Care Center, we can help you maximize the efficiency of your daily diet to help in the prevention and healing of spine-related conditions. Today I will go more in depth on the anatomy of herniated discs and how proper nutrition can help you on the road to healing.

Spinal discs are composed of 2 layers: the outer layer called annulus fibrosus, is made up of several layers of strong collagen fibers, designed for durability. The inner layer, called the nucleus pulposus is composed of loose fibers that allow for movement; this is responsible for the shock absorption that allows your spine its range of movement. When herniation occurs, the annulus fibrosus cracks or splits, allowing the nucleus pulposus to leak out and push against the weakened area. If this bulge is significant enough, it will put pressure on the nearby spinal nerve. This is what causes discomfort and pain to those who are suffering from herniated discs.

If disc herniation begins with the cracking of the annulus fibrosus, a structure composed of cartilaginous material, we want to focus on nutrients that support healthy cartilage. Here are some nutrients you can incorporate into your diet to support the natural healing of a herniated disc.

Foods and supplements to consider:

  • Vitamin C: forms collagen, which binds and supports tissue
  • Glucosamine sulfate: helps the body to form chemicals that repair cartilage
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: a natural anti-inflammatory
  • Sulphur-rich foods: support collagen production

A diet rich in fruit and vegetables and lean proteins, such as fish and chicken, can help to heal and prevent herniated discs! Getting these nutrients in the proper proportions will benefit you enormously. Contact us at (201) 995-9900 and set up an appointment today. With your help, we can create a multi-faceted plan for addressing your herniated disc pain and instill healthy habits that will benefit your whole life.

Dr. Moe Abtahi, D.C.

Rachael F

From tears to smiles, thanks to Dr. Moe!!!!!

I will never forget that day….. excruciating pain as if someone had literally stabbed me in the back and tears falling down my cheeks:( But, with great referrals from friends, I called Dr. Abtahi’s office with no hesitation. Melissa was so helpful that day and had me come in immediately. Dr.Mo saw me right away and could see how much pain and discomfort i was in. He was determined to make me feel better by the end of that first visit. The amount of time and care Dr.Mo provided me with was astounding! On that day and throughout all my treatments at spinal Health care, I was treated as if i were family by the whole staff. The love this man has for his work is exceptional and greatly appreciated. He has so much to offer in his office and can treat pretty much any problem. I had doubts that i wouldn’t be able to be active again, dance or take/teach zumba because of low back pain. But, after only a few treatments from Dr. Mo, I was able to perform normal daily activities and within a month saw great success and was able to do just about everything i love:) My frowns had turned upside down and i am still smiling, enjoying my life pain-free!!! Thank you Dr.Mo for all your hard work, patience/dedication, and commitment to making people feel great!

M. C.

I would highly recommend Family Chiropractic to everyone, regardless of age or c

The doctor was a pleasure. He was knowledgable, explained all points of services, and really helped with my ailment. I would highly recommend Family Chiropractic to everyone, regardless of age or condition.

Armita H

Best Treatment I Ever Had!

I first when to Dr. Abtahi for my knee and ankle. I have always had problems with them and other doctors that I have gone to never really helped me out. Once I started treatment with Dr. Abtahi, I had immediate results and my knee and ankle started to feel a hundred times better. He is a thoughtful Dr. who actually LISTENS to your problems. I highly reccommend him to anyone!

Warren C

Absolutely Fabulous

I went in there bent over and I came out straight. I have been going to Family Chiropractor for about a year now. The staff is great and Dr. Moe is great. I would recommend them to anyone.

Nomy G

Dr Abtahi is the best! I highly recommend him!

Dr. Abtahi is the best! I was diagnosed with scoliosis 30 years ago and have had significant pain in my back over the years. Two years ago I had a major surgical procedure which left me with even more back pain, but through the help of Dr abtahi the pain has been greatly reduced. I now have pain free days instead of days in which I could barely get out of bed. He is a very good Doctor. I highly recommend him!