(Free Press Release) Boise, Idaho - His recovery was scheduled to last at least 8 weeks, which made it impossible for the band to prepare for their US tour. Bonoâ€â„¢s disc injury was severe enough that he lost some motor function in one of his legs when a piece of the herniated disc in his low back began pressing on his sciatic nerve. Due to the severity of the pain, the nerve impingement and the loss of motor function Bono elected to have emergency back surgery.
Most herniated discs do not cause symptoms as severe as those that lead Bono to have back surgery. I cases where patients are able to live with the symptoms of a herniated disc despite the discomfort, they must decide whether they want to have surgery or pursue conservative treatment such as physical therapy.
Research has shown that although surgery often provides greater relief in the first 6 months the long-term benefits (12 months +) of back surgery do not exceed the benefits of conservative treatment.
In addition, the cost of a back surgery can be prohibitive especially for those without any health insurance. When faced with a situation where one has a herniated disc but the symptoms are tolerable, the question then becomes what can one do to avoid back surgery for a herniated disc.
Physical therapy is the treatment of choice for most patients. Physical therapy involves stretches and exercise specifically designed to increase range of motion and minimize the inflammation around the herniated disc. This inflammation is generally a primary source of pain and nerve impingement. Deep tissue massage and decompression techniques such as spinal traction are also used to help relieve muscle spasms and stiffness as well as ease pressure on nerves.
After about two months Patients generally get enough relief with physical therapy that they are then able to manage their symptoms on their own with a home exercise program.
Over time the herniated portion of the disc heals and the body reabsorbs any loose fragments of disc that were causing problems. Most neurological deficits such as tingling and muscle weakness will also resolve.
If oneâ€â„¢s back pain and nerve symptoms are tolerable and they do not a have the pressing obligations of a multi-million dollar concert tour to attend to, then it is wise to avoid the risk and expense of back surgery and pursue physical therapy for a herniated disc.
For more information about herniated discs and physical therapy for back pain visit: www.backpainhelptoday.com
U2 will be resuming their 360 concert tour in the US on May 21st 2011 in Denver CO.
Gavin Morrison, PT graduated with a degree in physical therapy from the University of Washington. Gavin now owns and operates his own private practice therapy clinic where he treats numerous patients using the proven techniques in this guide, "Back Pain Relief Secrets". You can visit Back Pain Help Today to learn more.
Gavin Morrison is author of this article on back pain help.
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