A herniated disc can make everyday activities — like sitting, walking, and bending — feel painful and exhausting. Whether symptoms come on suddenly from lifting something heavy or gradually over time, early treatment plays a major role in how well and how fast you recover.

At Akshar Physical Therapy, we specialize in Herniated Disc Treatment in Edison, NJ to help relieve pain, restore mobility, and protect your spine from future injuries.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Your spine is made up of bones (vertebrae) separated by soft discs that act as shock absorbers. When the inner gel-like material pushes through a tear in the disc’s outer layer, it can press on nearby nerves — leading to pain and weakness in the neck, back, or legs.

Herniated discs most commonly affect:

The cervical spine (neck)
The lumbar spine (lower back)

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Signs can vary depending on which part of the spine is affected. You may notice:

Sharp or shooting pain in the back or neck
Pain that radiates into the arm, shoulder, buttocks, or leg
Tingling or numbness in hands, fingers, feet, or toes
Weakness in the muscles used for lifting or gripping
Pain worsened by sitting, bending, or twisting

If these symptoms interfere with your normal routine or persist longer than a few days, it’s time to seek help from a physical therapist.

How Physical Therapy Helps Herniated Disc Pain

Physical therapy is a safe, effective, and non-surgical treatment option that focuses on:

Reducing pressure on irritated nerves
Improving spinal posture and flexibility
Strengthening core and back muscles
Restoring normal movement without aggravating symptoms

At Akshar Physical Therapy, each treatment plan is fully customized based on your symptoms and recovery goals.

7 Tips to Manage Herniated Disc Pain

Until you meet with a therapist, these strategies may help reduce discomfort:

1. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Slouching

Poor posture increases disc pressure and may worsen symptoms.

Tip: Stand and stretch every 30–45 minutes.

2. Lift Properly

Lifting with a bent spine can trigger or worsen a disc injury.

Tip: Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and hold objects close to your body.

3. Stay Gently Active

Movement improves circulation and reduces stiffness.

Tip: Follow light mobility exercises recommended by a therapist — avoid anything that causes sharp pain.

4. Strengthen Your Core

Strong supporting muscles take stress off your spine.

Tip: Focus on controlled exercises that activate deep abdominal muscles.

5. Modify Painful Activities

Don’t push through symptoms — it may delay healing.

Tip: Track what movements trigger pain and adjust those positions temporarily.

6. Use Ice or Heat Wisely

Both may offer temporary relief.

Ice: reduces inflammation during flare-ups
Heat: loosens tight muscles before stretching

7. Seek Professional Help

If pain persists or worsens, early rehab is key to recovery.

When Herniated Disc Symptoms Need Urgent Care

Get immediate medical attention if you experience:

Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control
Severe leg weakness
Numbness in the groin or inner thigh

These may indicate cauda equina syndrome — a rare but serious condition.

Herniated Disc Treatment in Edison, NJ — Start Your Recovery Today

Don’t let back or neck pain keep you from enjoying life. Our experts at Akshar Physical Therapy use evidence-based techniques to:

Physical Therapy for Herniated Discs: Symptoms, Causes & When to Get Help