Physiotherapy in case of a disc protrusion at the cervical spine is an important factor for the regression of the protrusion and the prevention of its recurrence. Since a disc protrusion often develops due to incorrect loading or long work at the computer desk, it is important to relieve the cervical spine with the help of appropriate exercises and corrections to the posture. These exercises also help to reduce the pain caused by the bulge. A trained physiotherapist will develop an individual therapy plan in cooperation with the physician and patient to treat the cervical spinal disc protrusion.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a disc protrusion in the cervical spine are very similar to those of a herniated disc, which is why it is particularly important to pay attention to the subtleties when making the diagnosis. Most patients complain of pain in the neck and upper back area. Also, feelings of tension and pain in movement can occur. If the bulging disc presses on a nerve, this can lead to a tingling sensation for the patient. The article Herniated disc in the cervical spine – physiotherapy might be of interest to you in this respect.
Therapy
Once the diagnosis of a disc protrusion is confirmed, it is important to start with the appropriate therapy as soon as possible. Surgery is only necessary in very rare cases, so as a rule conservative treatment is used. Often the symptoms of a disc protrusion disappear on their own, especially if the triggering activity is omitted and patients pay attention to their posture.
Otherwise, various therapeutic methods such as physiotherapy, back school, massages, chiropractic, heat, cold and electrotherapy or osteopathy are used to relax and strengthen the muscles in the area of the bulge. In individual cases, medication can be prescribed to help relax the muscles. During the therapy, the patient is given an individual training plan consisting of various exercises to get the pain under control and to prevent the recurrence of a bulge. It is important that those affected actively participate in the therapy and continue to take the necessary precautions after the therapy is over to prevent a relapse or a more serious injury, such as a slipped disc.
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