Everyday Activities to Avoid with Herniated Disc

 

Suffering from a herniated disc can be a painful and debilitating experience. This condition occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. When this happens, it often puts pressure on the spinal nerves, leading to symptoms like tingling, numbness, and even weakness in the affected areas. While herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, they most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) or the neck (cervical spine). If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disc, there are certain everyday activities that you should avoid to help ease your symptoms. In this blog post, we'll discuss these activities in more detail.

 

1. Lifting Heavy Objects

One of the most common causes of a herniated disc is lifting heavy objects improperly. If you have a herniated disc, it's important to avoid lifting anything heavy, as it can put additional pressure on your spinal discs and exacerbate your symptoms. If you must lift something heavy, make sure to use proper lifting techniques, such as bending your knees and lifting with your legs rather than your back.

2. Sitting or Standing for Long Periods

Both sitting and standing for long periods of time can be detrimental to those with a herniated disc. When you sit or stand for extended periods, you put added pressure on your spinal discs, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort. If you have a desk job that requires you to sit for long periods, make sure to take frequent breaks and get up and move around every hour or so. If you must stand for long periods, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and try to shift your weight from one foot to the other.

3. Twisting or Bending at the Waist

Any activity that requires you to twist or bend at the waist can put added pressure on your spinal discs, making it difficult to manage your symptoms. Activities like golfing, tennis, and even vacuuming can be difficult for those with a herniated disc. If you must perform these activities, make sure to use proper technique and take frequent breaks to avoid aggravating your symptoms.

4. High-Impact Exercises

High-impact exercises like running and jumping can be extremely difficult for those with a herniated disc. These activities put added stress on your spinal discs, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort. If you're looking to stay active, try low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling, which are less likely to exacerbate your symptoms.

5. Poor Posture

Poor posture is a common cause of a herniated disc. When you slouch or hunch over, you put added pressure on your spinal discs, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort. To avoid worsening your symptoms, make sure to practice good posture when sitting and standing. Sit upright with your shoulders back and your feet flat on the floor. When standing, distribute your weight evenly on both feet.

 

Conclusion

Living with a herniated disc can be challenging, but avoiding everyday activities that exacerbate your symptoms can help you manage your pain and discomfort. If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disc, it's important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that's right for you. By avoiding activities like lifting heavy objects, sitting or standing for long periods, twisting or bending at the waist, engaging in high-impact exercises, and practicing poor posture, you can help alleviate your symptoms and live a more comfortable life. If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Deltona, FL, contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today to learn more about our treatment options.