Prevention of a slipped disc | Herniated disc of the cervical spine

Prevention of a slipped disc

If a few points are observed, a herniated disc of the cervical spine can be prevented:

  • Regular gymnastics and sports, such as swimming, hiking, jogging, to strengthen the back muscles and relieve the spine
  • Compensatory movement with sedentary work
  • Trained relaxation techniques to release tense back muscles and improve posture
  • A suitable mattress that is adapted to your body weight; the spine should not bend while sleeping
  • In case of overweight, reduce the weight as soon as possible.

Sport with a slipped disc of the cervical spine

To prevent a herniated disc it is important to strengthen the muscles. Anyone who has suffered a slipped disc of the cervical spine should start with physiotherapy immediately. The exercises for a herniated disc of the cervical spine serve to relieve the spine and contribute a lot to the healing process.

Also important are practices that relieve and relax the muscles, for example relaxing exercises (stretching) or movement therapies (such as aqua gymnastics). For the rehabilitation of a slipped disc, exercises that also improve posture are also suitable. The exercises should be continued at home after rehabilitation.

It is important to choose a type of sport that does not strain the intervertebral discs and the back and should therefore be discussed with the doctor! Endurance sports such as swimming, cycling, walking or hiking are recommended, as they do not compress or rotate the spine and the back and abdominal muscles are equally stressed. Jogging is very popular but not recommended as a prophylaxis after a slipped disc.

Nevertheless, jogging is of course not prohibited despite a herniated disc. However, there are a few things you should consider. For this we have written a completely independent topic: Jogging after /despite herniated disc Targeted strength training of the back muscles under supervision can also help to strengthen the muscles.

It is not recommended because of the excessive compression or rotation of sports such as riding, downhill skiing, tennis, weight lifting without instruction, etc. In order to protect the intervertebral discs in the long term, one should seek advice to find a suitable sport.