Vertebral blockage
A vertebral blockage in BWS occurs much more frequently than a herniated disc, but can cause very similar symptoms. For example, a jerky movement or a violent muscle pull (e.g. after coughing) can cause a small change in the joint mechanics of a vertebral joint. This can also lead to nerve irritation and cause thoracic pain, obstruct breathing and lead to local or radiating back pain in BWS.
The blockage is usually accompanied by a restriction of movement in a certain direction. In therapy, it can be resolved by mobilization techniques. If such blockages occur more frequently, the patient’s statics and posture should be checked, as one-sided overloading is likely.
In the area of BWS, blockages can occur in the vertebral joints, but often the rib joints also block, which can lead to severe respiratory and movement-related pain. The rib joints can also be mobilized manually. After mobilization, a blockage can usually be expected to subside quickly.
Shortness of breath
As a result of a herniated disc in the BWS, breathing difficulties and even shortness of breath can occur. The irritation of the intercostal nerves can painfully restrict the movement of breathing, and rib mobility can also be impaired by tension in the BWS. Rib joints can become blocked and cause stabbing pain during breathing. If the respiratory problems occur over a longer period of time, are exclusively load-dependent and cannot be influenced by the movement of the spinal column, a medical examination should be performed urgently to clarify other causes.
Summary
A slipped disc in BWS is extremely rare, but can lead to unpleasant symptoms. In addition to local or radiating back pain and tension, it can lead to belt-shaped thoracic pain, chest pain or even breathing restrictions. The therapy is initially aimed at symptomatic and healing objectives, but in the course of time the causal overloading of the structures is to be improved through targeted posture correction and strengthening. The patient should also complete a homework program on his own and consciously deal with his back in everyday life.
