[kswr_dropcaps drpcp_letter_fstyle=”font-family:Inherit;font-weight:500;” drpcp_content_fstyle=”font-family:Default;font-weight:inherit;” drpcp_content_color=”#333333″ drpcp_letter_color=”{“type“:“color“,“color1“:“rgba(242, 101, 41, 1)“,“color2“:“#67b8c0“,“direction“:“to bottom right“}” drpcp_letter_bgsize=”58″ drpcp_letter_br_radius=”0″ drpcp_letter_bgcolor=”{“type“:“color“,“color1“:“#ffffff“,“color2“:“#fff“,“direction“:“to left“}” drpcp_letter=”I” drpcp_letter_font_def=”0″ drpcp_content=”If your life is being affected by symptoms related to disc herniation, exercises could be the very last thing you want to attempt. However, there are many benefits to a program of doctor-approved exercise, including increased flexibility and stronger core muscles. Additionally, long periods of immobility can lead to muscle stiffness and decreased circulation, both of which can slow the herniated disc healing process.

This is why it’s better to stay as active as possible without overexerting yourself, because a herniated disc can often heal over time with the proper conservative treatments. These treatments can include hot-cold therapy, pain medication and steroid injections, but should also involve activities like low-impact exercise and gentle stretching.” drpcp_content_font_def=”0″ drpcp_content_fsize=”font-size:15px;” drpcp_letter_style_def=”0″ drpcp_letter_margins=”margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:6px;margin-right:13px;” drpcp_letter_br_advanced=”0″ drpcp_letter_br_normal=”{“borderwidth“:“2px“,“bordercolor1“:“rgba(242, 101, 41, 1)“,“borderstyle“:“solid“,“bordergradientdirection“:“none“,“bordercolor2“:“#67b8c0“}” drpcp_letter_fsize=”font-size:27px;”]

Two great exercises for disc herniation treatment

Not just any type of exercise is suitable for a herniated disc. Choose low-impact activities that will not place added pressure on the moving parts of the spine. Below are just two examples of easy exercises to get you started:

  • Lunges. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, making sure that your shoulders are not hunched and that your lower back is not overly arched; step forward with one foot and bend the knee so that the extended leg forms a 90-degree angle with the floor. Keep the knee of the opposite leg off the floor and hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds.
  • Core contractions. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Make sure there is no gap between your lower back and the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles and raise your pelvis off the floor a few inches. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds.

Being careful not to overexert yourself

No matter what type of disc herniation exercises you do, you should never overexert yourself. If you feel any sort of joint pain, grinding, popping or “cold” discomfort that feels like it could be a loss of circulation, stop the activity immediately. In addition, never attempt a course of exercise or other disc herniation therapy without first getting approval from your physician.