Back pain is a common complaint that can arise from various sources, and one unexpected culprit may be a hernia. In this blog, we’ll explore the intriguing question: Can a hernia affect your back?

What Is a Hernia?

A hernia refers to the bulging of tissue or an organ through the barrier that contains it. This occurs because of excessive strain or weight and weakness in the abdominal wall. You might notice a lump under your skin, swelling, pain, and tenderness.

Types of Hernia Causing Back Pain

Spinal hernia

Spinal hernias, also known as herniated or slipped discs, occur when the nucleus of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the annulus. Herniated discs mostly occur in the lower back. However, they may also occur throughout the spine. The displacement results in discomfort, tingling, or numbness as the disc exerts pressure on a spinal nerve.

Lumbar Hernia

Lumbar hernias, constituting approximately 1.5% of all abdominal hernia cases, involve a protrusion in the back between the hip bone and bottom ribs. This can cause lower back pain, which causes discomfort during coughing.

Can an Abdominal Hernia Cause Back Pain?

Other abdominal hernias include incisional, inguinal, and umbilical hernias. They cause discomfort in the affected area and rarely extend to the back.

Effective Physical Therapy Techniques for Herniated Disc Back Pain

  • Manual Therapy: This involves hands-on pressure to address back pain. A physical therapist uses techniques like soft tissue and joint mobilization to break up scar tissue around the hernia, releasing tension and reducing pressure on the spine.
  • Myokinesthetic Therapy: Targeting the nervous system, this therapy addresses pain caused by pressure on the spinal nerve. Myokinesthetic therapy aims to diminish back pain and enhance mobility by focusing on specific areas in the nervous system.
  • Exercises: Stretching and strengthening the muscles around the hernia are crucial to ease pressure on the spinal nerve and provide better spine support. A physical therapist can guide you to perform exercises tailored to your body’s capabilities safely and effectively.

When To Seek Help

Some critical situations where you should immediately contact a doctor include:

  • severe or worsening pain
  • difficulty in bowel movements
  • abdominal bloating
  • having urinary incontinence

Experience Relief Today

While not the first condition that comes to mind when considering the causes of back pain, hernias can indeed be a contributing factor. If you’re grappling with unexplained back pain, consult professionals addressing low back pain in Tamarac, FL, at Interventional SpineSpecialists of Florida.