globe

SEARCH

Phantom training masks

Phantom training bag

Phantom training vest

Phantom sling trainer

Phantom training ball

PHANTOM equipment bestseller

Herniated disc - and how to avoid it

Athlete's enema no.1

Hardly any injury is as feared among athletes as problems with the intervertebral disc. Not only does it hurt like hell, but it often requires a long break. Even after this, it is not always certain whether the old level of performance can actually be fully regained. That's why you shouldn't let it get to that point in the first place. You can find out exactly what happens when a herniated disc occurs, what the symptoms are, treatment options and how to avoid it here. 


The problem

A herniated disc (BSP/ disc prolapse) is a degenerative disease of the spine. In healthy people, the individual vertebrae are connected by flexible structures made of fibrocartilage. The human spine has a total of 23 of these intervertebral discs. They consist of an outer fiber core, the so-called annulus fibrosus, and the inner gelatinous core (nucleus pulposus). The latter is a cell-poor tissue which, like a water cushion, is deformable but not compressible. The intervertebral disc serves as a pressure and shock cushion. At the same time, it ensures the mobility of the spine. 75% of the forces are absorbed by the fiber ring. Due to prolonged incorrect loading, weakness of the muscles next to the vertebrae, but also due to genetic weakness, the nucleus pulposus can penetrate into the spinal canal in which the spinal cord lies. In doing so, he tears the annulus fibrosus. 


Symptoms

Many herniated discs also have no symptoms. Therefore, before starting therapy, it is important to determine whether the symptoms actually arise from a disc prolapse. A diagnosis can be made using magnetic resonance or computer tomography. Myelography is rarely indicated. Often only a physical and neurological examination is carried out, but this is not always enough to rule out other causes with certainty. Laboratory tests can also help differentiate a herniated disc from infectious diseases that cause similar symptoms. 

Most symptoms are rather diffuse, such as back pain, which can radiate to the arms or legs. Depending on the severity, numbness is also possible if nerves have been pinched. According to the AWMF guidelines, the following symptoms require urgent action: 

-previous accident, osteoporosis

-Fever

-Weight loss

-Progressive nerve failures

-Increased pain at night

-incomplete paralysis

-Problems with bowel movements or urination


Therapy

Surgery is only recommended in rare cases due to the high complication rate of the procedure. Instead, the aim is to maintain or rebuild mobility as much as possible, if necessary with appropriate medication for pain therapy. Except in the acute stage, targeted physiotherapy can provide relief. Sports that put strain on the intervertebral discs should be avoided under all circumstances. Instead, we recommend moderate activities such as cross-country skiing, cycling or backstroke. Other stresses should only be carried out in consultation with the treating doctor. 

However, even after successful treatment on other intervertebral discs, a new herniation between the other vertebral bodies can occur. Therefore, special attention should be paid to training the supporting muscles.


Prophylaxis

Even if the prognosis is much better thanks to a variety of new treatment methods than it was a few years ago, the ultimate goal is of course to prevent it from getting to that point in the first place. The best protection against a prolapse is, above all, well-developed core muscles. Exercises such as the plank, L-sit or leg raises can help to strengthen this. The same applies here: technique is key. Not only will you be able to handle a lot more weight if you perform the exercise correctly, for example with the deadlift, but you will also protect yourself from unpleasant consequences. Therefore: Keep the back straight and tightened. Weightlifting belts are not always your friend here. This tool is often completely misunderstood and used, and in the wrong product version. The result is a weakening of the back muscles and an increase in the risk of a herniated disc. So unless you can lift at least twice your own body weight with a straight back, it's better to stay away from it. At the same time, it is important to ensure that you do not fall into bad posture due to tension in everyday life, which is why stretching should not be neglected.

Take home message

Sure, a herniated disc is really uncool. We completely agree with you. But does this mean that you should switch to a “lower risk” sport? Certainly not. Train cleanly and always improve within your capabilities. In this way you create the best basis for training safely and injury-free in the long term. 

x