The term "herniated disc" has become quite popular when we are talking about spinal disorders. It is important to understand what a herniated disc is and especially to learn to prevent a herniated disc.

Intervertebral discs are structures of fibrocartilaginous nature, placed between two vertebrae. They are essential for the movement of the spine and act as a ligament, tying a vertebra to the next, but especially they have a role in the absorption of shocks significantly diminishing the impact between the vertebrae. The discs are round and flat, with a thickness between 9-11 mm and consist of two components, a fibrous ring and a pulpy nucleus.

Intervertebral discs can suffer injuries and can move between the vertebrae, the most well-known term being herniated disc. Basically, the disc slips back or it can crack. Herniated disc can occur anywhere in the spine, but it is most commonly found in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.

➢ Avoid bending the head forward as much as possible
➢ Keep the gaze forward when walking
➢ Reduce the use of electronic devices because during their use the head is bent forward
➢ Sleep with the head in a neutral position, by using a single pillow
➢ Keep the mobility of the cervical spine performing daily specific physical exercises

Herniated thoracic disc is much less common compared to cervical or lumbar disc herniation, but it can still occur if a few simple rules are not followed.

➢ Avoid activities that cause pain or that affect the thoracic area
➢ Both in your free time and at the office, keep an adequate, right posture to alleviate the pressure on the intervertebral discs
➢ Regular, stretching exercise maintains the flexibility of the thoracic spine.

The lumbar intervertebral discs are most solicited, since most pressure acts on them and this is the reason why herniated disc is the most common pathology that occurs in the lumbar spine.

➢ The loss of body weight is indicated in overweight people, thus improving the condition of the lumbar area.
➢ Avoid activities that affect the lumbar area, such as those that involve bending/ leaning the body forward or lifting heavy weights.
➢ It is a priority to learn the right technique of lifting objects
➢ Increase the tonus of the lumbar paravertebral muscles, but also of the abdominal and buttocks muscles, through regular exercise. These muscle groups, which are part of the CORE area, represent the stabilizing muscles of the body. Basically, any movement of the body, whether you hit a tennis ball or wipe the floor, the necessary movements come either from the core area or are transmitted through it.