Herniated discs are common, and most people with herniated discs may never know it. The discs in your spine are shaped similar to a donut. They are circular with a low density center that resembles a gel-like substance. Natural aging and disc degeneration can cause a spinal disc to herniate. However, a herniated disc will typically go unnoticed unless it touches a nerve. The primary nerve affected by a herniated disc is the sciatic nerve, which runs from the base of your spine to your knees. Herniated pressure on the sciatic nerve can cause pain and discomfort extending from your lower back to your feet. When a disc is herniated, the low density center protrudes and puts unnatural pressure on adjacent tissues and nerves.

Herniated discs are common in the lower back. Symptoms include a sharp pain or continuous discomfort that can extend from your lumbar region to your feet. Herniated discs can also occur in the upper back. If you have a herniated disc in your upper back you may experience the sharp, continuous pain in your shoulders and arms. Herniated discs are also commonly referred to as bulging discs or ruptured discs.

The goal for herniated disc-related back pain relief is relieving pressure off the sciatic nerve and properly aligning your posture. For short term back pain relief, heat therapy and traction work well. Heat therapy back cushions will ease the tension from the herniated disc. When your muscles relax, more blood can circulate to the affected are which will expedite healing. Traction, or stretching mechanisms, will properly align the spine so pressure is released from the affected disc. When pressure is relieved from the herniated disc(s), they can heal and reform to natural position.

While immediate relief is available for herniated disc-related back pain with an inversion table (http://www.inspirationalbodies.com), the ultimate goal should be practicing proper posture to reduce future episodes. Herniated discs are evidence of prolonged poor posture and disc degeneration. Lumbar cushions should be implemented into daily practice to support your spinal lumbar region. In addition, back braces should be worn on a regular basis when performing activities that may irritate the affected region. A supportive back brace will help you maintain the proper posture that supplements healing.