Remember there is a good pain and bad pain when talking about back pain. Good pain is anything that stays in the low back. Bad pain is anything that runs down the leg. Usually, bad pain is associated with a herniated disc.
Most people with a herniated disc may notice increased difficulty with their daily activities. Because of the posterio-lateral disc protrusion, bending can increase the leg pain. Bending includes sitting with the trunk at a 90 degree angle, picking up something off the floor, loading and unloading the dishwasher or washing machine, tying your shoes and even getting in and out of the car. Leaning forward while brushing your teeth can also increase leg pain if you have a herniated disc.
Sleeping in a fetal position can also promote pain. The pain is because the substance in the center of the disc protrudes into the spinal area and either compresses or increases tension on the surrounding nerves.
I’m Steve Taylor, Physical Therapist of Southern Physical and Occupational Therapy Services
Moving You To A Pain-Free Lifestyle
