Herniated discs are a very common issue that can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. But what makes a herniated disc worse? Let’s take a look at the factors that can make a herniated disc more painful and debilitating.
1. Stress: Stress can cause muscle tension, which in turn can put pressure on the discs in your spine. This can make a herniated disc worse by increasing the pressure on the discs and making them more prone to injury.
2. Poor Posture: Poor posture can also lead to increased pressure on your discs. Sitting in a hunched position or standing with your head and shoulders forward can compress the discs in your spine, making a herniated disc worse.
3. Lack of Exercise: Exercise is important for keeping your spine strong and healthy. When you don’t get enough exercise, your spine and discs can become weak, making a herniated disc worse.
4. Repetitive Movements: Repetitive movements can put extra strain on your spine, leading to a herniated disc. This is especially true if the movements are done in poor posture or if you are lifting weights without proper form.
5. Obesity: Being overweight can put added strain on your spine, increasing the risk of a herniated disc.
6. Smoking: Smoking can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients that are delivered to the discs in your spine, making them more prone to injury and making a herniated disc worse.
7. Age: As we age, our spines become more prone to injury, making a herniated disc worse.
Keeping these factors in mind can help you reduce the risk of developing a herniated disc and make it less painful if you do develop one. It’s also important to seek medical advice if you experience any pain or discomfort, as it may be a sign of a herniated disc.