Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe back pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter medications.

• Numbness or weakness in the legs or arms.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control (a sign of cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency).

• Pain that spreads down one leg (sciatica).

 Do's:

• Follow medical advice: Stick to your treatment plan and attend therapy sessions.

• Stay active: Engage in gentle exercises as recommended by your doctor or therapist.

• Maintain good posture by using ergonomic furniture and practicing proper lifting techniques.

• Heat/cold therapy: Apply as needed to help manage pain and inflammation.

• Eat a healthy diet: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the spine.

 Don'ts:

• Avoid heavy lifting: Refrain from activities that can strain your back.

• Don't remain inactive for too long: Prolonged bed rest can worsen symptoms.

• Don't ignore pain: Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or change.

• Avoid smoking: It can hinder healing and exacerbate back problems.

Disclaimer:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's essential to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

emedicinehealth | Slipped Disc (Herniated Disc)

healthline | Slipped (Herniated) Disc

Patient.info | Slipped Disc: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Synapse | Understanding Slipped Disc: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

HSS | 6 Things to Know about Slipped Discs in the Lower Back