How should I sleep with herniated disc in lower back?

If you have a herniated disc, you may want to try sleeping on your side curled in a fetal position:

1. Lay on your back and then roll over gently onto your side.
2. Tuck your knees toward your chest and gently curl your torso toward your knees.
3. Remember to switch sides from time to time to prevent any imbalances.

What is the best resting position for herniated disc?

Herniated discs are most commonly located in the lower back. The best herniated disc sleeping position is usually sleeping on your back. This position keeps the spine in alignment. If the pain persists, you can place a pillow under the lower back and knees to ease the pressure placed on the spine.

Why is herniated disc worse at night?

Herniated Disc: The tissue that sits between and cushions vertebrae may break down and inflame surrounding tissue, a condition known as a herniated disc. Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, a herniated disc’s pain is worse in the morning due to long stretches of inactivity when sleeping.

Is lying on stomach good for herniated disc?

Herniated lumbar disc For a paracentral disc herniation (most common), people tend to do better lying on the stomach. For a foraminal herniated disc, sleeping on the side in a fetal position often brings relief.

How can I sleep comfortably with a herniated disc?

The optimal sleeping position for a herniated disc is on your back. Lying on your back keeps your spine in a neutral position so you have less chance of pinching the nerve. For added comfort, nestle a small pillow or rolled-up towel under your knees and lower back.

Is laying down good for herniated disc?

The preferred sleep position depends in part on the position of the disc. For a paracentral disc herniation (most common), people tend to do better lying on the stomach. For a foraminal herniated disc, sleeping on the side in a fetal position often brings relief.

Should you walk with a herniated disc?

Absolutely. Walking is an excellent choice for patients with herniated discs, as it stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the cells. It also helps keep your discs hydrated, which is important for healing. Other low-impact aerobic activities to try are swimming and cycling.

How do I sleep with a herniated disc?

How do you know if your herniated disc is getting worse?

Some people’s legs or feet feel numb or tingly. The pain from a herniated disc usually is worse when you are active and gets better when you are resting. Coughing, sneezing, sitting, driving, and bending forward may make the pain worse.

How can I ease the pain of a herniated disc?

Treatment

1. Over-the-counter pain medications. If your pain is mild to moderate, your doctor might recommend over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve).
2. Cortisone injections.
3. Muscle relaxers.
4. Opioids.

Is sitting bad for disc herniation?

Sitting with a herniated disc can be a real misery, particularly if the disc pain is experienced in the lumbar region of the spine. Sitting has a very bad reputation as a problematic activity for lower back pain sufferers.

Do herniated spinal discs heal on their own with time?

In brief: Yes! Most lumbar disc herniations tend to heal on their own. Anti-inflammatory medication and traction type of therapy often helps to relieve the pain. The herniated disc often takes up to 3 months to heal.

What are the best herniated disc exercises?

Bouncing on a therapy ball is a simple and effective exercise for a herniated disc because it helps pump nutrients and oxygen into your discs, according to Daulton. Sit on a large therapy or exercise ball, looking straight ahead and relaxing your arms by your sides. Bounce up and down on the ball for five minutes each day.

Should I wear a back brace for a herniated disc?

Wearing a herniated disc back brace may help prevent an injury from occurring. Back braces can also help support the lower back after a herniated disc by providing compression and stability. Learn more about herniated discs or back injuries from our back injury guide.