Physical therapy for herniated disc t5 t6
Posted on August 20, 2008
Filed Under Healthy |
Out of the numerous types of diseases and disorders that the human body is exposed to the most damaging and painful disorders of them all are spine injuries or damage. The human spinal column consists of 24 vertebrae and this is sub divided into the cervical spine consisting of seven vertebrae, the thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae and the lumbar spine with five vertebrae. The base bone also called the sacrum is situated at the end of the sacrum in the coccyx.
The shock absorbing cushion also referred to as the discs is between each vertebra pair. In the beginning there are 23 discs which start from the second and third neck vertebrae and are called C2-C3, T5-T6 and L4-L5 the letter ‘C’ stand for ‘Cervical’, ‘T’ Stands for ‘Thoracic’, ‘L’ stands for ‘Lumbar’ and ‘S’ for ‘Sacrum’.
Life threatening situations such as falls, weak muscles, weak supporting muscles and body mechanics can cause damage to these discs. When the outer layer of the disc breaks it opens and causes disc herniation also called subligamentous.
When this condition occurs in the lower back or lumbar spine region, it sometimes affects the cervical and upper back called the thoracic spine too. It applies pressure to the nerve roots this causes lots of pain and numbness to the patient in the affected area. The gel like substance oozes out of the discs once the disc is cracked. Normal methods of x-rays are unable to detect the disorder so MRI or CT scans are used in place.
When it is said that the thoracic spine is injured it means that T5 T6 are herniated. The muscles relax when pain killers are administered as medicines for this injury. The best way to cure herniated T5 T6 discs are through physical therapy because there is no real cure through medication however medication can only suppress the pain and symptoms. In severe cases surgery is recommended. Physical exercises and bed rest can provide relief from numbness.
Walking and activities without too much straining can keep the pain at bay. Administering ice pack or hot pack on the affected area atleast 3-4 times a day will relieve muscle tension and pain. Physiotherapy is by far the best treatment that can help with herniated disc disorders. Especially for T5 T6 disorders or injuries are very unbearable but it can be treated.
With proper physical therapy the unstable segment and neutral zone can be controlled. This therapy helps in increasing mobility and allows the patient to walk, climb stairs etc freely. It can improve physical function and prevent disability and give balance to the affected area. The therapy must be concentrated around the muscles, bones, ligaments, nerves etc.
This form of therapy can be easily availed at hospitals, clinics or fitness centers. You need to make sure to get a good physical therapist; you must consider those recommended by friends and family. Health insurance companies and physicians also provide a list of good physiotherapists. You first need to investigate if the therapist is qualified and has the necessary degree. Defective therapy can be dangerous and lead to physical conditions and cause the patient to become immobile. So be cautious when selecting a good physical therapist.
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