In today's strenuous society, we are constantly on the run. We hardly take time out and address life's petty impediments. We tend to take for granted minor ailments such as colds, sore throat and tooth problems. There are just not enough hours in the day to solve all of these problems. But for those who deal with back pain every day of their lives, ignoring the problem and moving forward isn't an option . Excruciating pain that derives from a herniated disc can be debilitating. The spasms and aches from the crushed nerves feel as if with one step, it will all be over. How does one overcome such a painful complication? Is it treatable and does it enable one to continue a normal routine? The following question and answer discussion will attempt to provide a more in depth information about the subject on hand.

What is herniated disc all about and what are the triggering factors?

A disc becomes herniated when it is pressed against nerve endings. This pressure can be extremely painful, and can often lead to numbness as well as a tingling sensation. While contributory factors vary, a herniated disc is highly correlated to the aging factor. As we grow older, the discs in our spine also start to weaken losing some of the important cushion. The effect is that the disc may be subjected to tear, forcing the nucleus to push through and end up putting pressure on the nerves. Sport related injuries and lifting weights incorrectly are just a few additional reasons why many people experience a herniated disc at least once in their lifetime .

What are the associated signs?

When most people experience a herniated disc, they suffer from pain in their back and legs. The pressure applied on the nerve seem to cause tingling, numbness, shooting pain and sometimes muscle spasms.

Are there preventive measures?

Although the occurrence is inevitable, you can minimize the possibility of sustaining an injury. Be sure to stretch daily, exercise properly and most importantly, avoid smoking. Such unhealthy habit promotes discs degeneration. Also if you lift heavy objects, make sure you are in the correct posture by using your knees rather than your back.

How is the treatment administered for herniated disc?

The most effective treatment for a herniated disc is spinal decompression therapy. Surprisingly, this treatment is non-surgical, non-invasive and much cheaper than most procedures. The treatment consists of applying pressure to your spine. With this procedure the discs are stretched allowing blood supply and other vital nutrients to circulate into the spine. The disc is then able to gain flexibility and begin to heal, alleviating muscle spasms. Spinal decompression therapy is perfect for a herniated disc because the treatment itself is pain-free. You literally lie on a table and are hooked up to a harness that sends pressure to your spine. While 4-5 sessions are required per week for up to twenty sessions, patients find that spinal decompression therapy gives them a second chance at life. Thus those with a treated back can devote time to more pressing matters than stuck in a place helpless because of debilitating back pain. Finally a solution, rather than a quick fix.