Case Summary  |  Herniated Disc

I herniated a disk in my L5-S1 space. After being diagnosed, I was initially treated with pain medications and physical therapy. I also iced my back several times a day. The ice and meds made it feel the best. Physical therapy was good to learn how to do proper exercises in order to prevent pain in the future. I use a back brace when riding my horse, but I don't think it makes much difference other than making me sit up straighter. One of the best things I have done is changing my sleeping position and getting a better supportive mattress. I was told that sleeping on your stomach makes your back weak and less stable, so I sleep on my back. I wake up a lot less sore when this is accomplished. Pilates classes help keep my core strong, but I have to make sure I only do exercises that are good for my medical condition and not everything the instructor asks. Massages are really nice when my back tenses up from pain to help alleviate muscle spasms.

Sleep on back
massage on occasion
Pilates once a week