Why physical therapy for herniated disc t5 t6?

Posted on June 9, 2008
Filed Under Health |

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by Ryan Beartoes

Out of the many diseases and disorders that infiltrate the human body the most damaging and painful of them all are spine injuries or accidental damage. The spinal column (human) is composed of 24 vertebrae which is subdivided into the cervical spine consisting of seven vertebrae, the thoracic spine has 12 vertebrae and the lumbar spine has five vertebrae. The base of the bone also called the sacrum is situated at the end of the sacrum in the coccyx.

Also known as a disc and sometimes referred to as a shock absorbing cushion is situated between each vertebrae pair. The first 23 discs start from the second and third neck vertebreae, and named C2-C3, T5-T6 and L4-L5. The letter ‘C’ stand for cervical, ‘T’ means thoracic and ‘L’ stands for lumbar and ‘S’ for sacrum.

Accidents, falls, weak muscles, weak supporting muscles and body mechanics can cause damage to these discs. The outer layer of the disc breaks open and causes disc herniation otherwise known as subligamentous.

This condition occurs in the lower back or lumbar spine region, and sometimes affects the cervical and upper back called the thoracic spine too. Applying pressure to the nerve roots, herniated discs cause lots of pain and numbness in the affected area. The gel like material comes out of the discs once the discs rapture. Normal x-rays are unable to identify the disorder so MRI or CT scans are used.

When the T5 and T6 are herniated it means that the disorder or injury is done to the thoracic spine. The muscles are relaxed when pain killers are administered as medicines for this injury. Physical therapy is the only way to treat the herniated T5 T6 discs as there is no real medicine that can cure this injury it can only suppress the pain and symptoms. In severe cases surgery is required but not always. Physical exercises and bed rest can give relief from numbness.

Activities like walking and less strenuous activities can keep the pain away. Using an ice pack or a hot pack on the affected region 3-4 times a day will provide relief to muscle tension and pain. The best way to recover from herniated disc disorders is to seek physiotherapy. Especially in the case of T5 T6 disorders or injuries are very unbearable but it can be treated.

Proper physical therapy helps in controlling the unstable segment and neutral zone. Physiotherapy helps in increasing mobility in the patient and also allows the patient to start walking and climbing stairs etc freely. It improves physical response and prevents disability and also gives balance to the affected area. The therapy must be focuses 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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One Response to “Why physical therapy for herniated disc t5 t6?”

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