Healing takes place at home.
Q: Recently diagnosed with a bulging disc at C5-C6, is there anything I can do at home to relieve my pain?
— El Paso, TX.
A: Great question because anyone that has woken up with a stiff neck can relate. This is the most common area of herniation in the neck. It is highly susceptible to regular wear and tear but poor neck posture, like looking down at a phone for too long and improper motion mechanics can also be a cause.
Taking care of yourself without having to go to the doctor is very important and it is critical to learn proper healing methods, and techniques.
Healthcare professionals will say that most of the healing takes place at home.
There are various ways to reduce pain at home, but remember that there is a point when symptoms do warrant professional medical attention.
Good news
Bulging and herniated discs typically heal within six months — and less than 10% ever need surgery.Non-surgical treatment for cervical bulging discs is usually enough to relieve pain and the best part is that you can do many of these treatments yourself.
Under chiropractic/therapist supervision, these treatments can be utilized at home or with the assistance
Cervical pillow
A proper pillow will help improve the quality of sleep and also give the neck proper support and position to heal.
Herbal remedies
The natural approach to medications is also welcome. There are plenty of herbal supplements to help relieve pain. There is capsaicin cream, that you can apply and helps reduces pain.Ice and heat therapy
Ice should be applied in a bag or towel for 15-20 minute intervals, two or three times daily. Heat treatment comes in the later stages of the therapy but follows the same on-off interval technique.Over-the-Door Traction
This therapy is very effective in helping relieve pain and muscle spasms. Your head and neck are attached to a harness. This is connected to a rope that is connected to a pulley system that goes over a door at your home. Then while sitting, leaning back, or lying down you go through the exercise.Motion exercises
These exercises help the neck recover its full range of motion. This prevents stiffness from setting in and also helps strengthen the muscles in the neck. A therapist or a chiropractor can show a variety of exercises depending on the area of injury/stiffness.However, if the pain does not go away a physical therapist/chiropractor can be your best option. Passive physical therapy includes:
- Ultrasound
- T.E.N.S electrical nerve stimulation
- Mild neck traction
Chiropractic Alignment
If the pain continues, then you may be referred to a chiropractor for spinal alignment.Chiropractors are experts at treating neck conditions. Aligning the cervical segments of the neck is a must as the injury can return if the cervical discs are not in proper alignment or even worsen. Chiropractic treatment can give relief and also stop cervical spine degeneration.
