What is a disc herniation?
Between the vertebrae of your spine sit the intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer ring and a soft, gel-like centre. A disc herniation (often called a slipped or bulging disc) happens when part of that centre pushes through the outer ring and irritates or presses on a nearby nerve root.
It most often affects the lower back (lumbar disc herniation, at L4–L5 and L5–S1) and the neck (cervical disc herniation, at C5–C6 and C6–C7). Age-related changes in the disc, repeated heavy loading, poor lifting habits, excess body weight and smoking can all play a part. The encouraging news is that most cases improve without surgery, with conservative care and well-guided physiotherapy for disc herniation here in Tirana.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the lower back or neck that may spread into the buttock, leg or arm (sciatica or cervical radiculopathy).
- Numbness, pins and needles or a burning feeling along the leg or arm.
- Weakness in certain muscles, for example difficulty rising onto your toes or gripping.
- Pain that gets worse when you sit for long periods, bend forward, cough or sneeze.
- Stiffness in the morning and some relief when you change position or walk.
Symptoms vary a great deal from person to person. The size of a herniation on an MRI scan does not always match how much pain you feel, which is why a careful clinical assessment matters so much.
How we treat disc herniation at PhysioLife
1. Initial assessment. Your physiotherapist takes a full history, looks at any scans you have (MRI, X-ray) and carries out neurological and movement tests: reflexes, muscle strength, sensation and how you walk. This tells us which level is likely involved, what eases or aggravates your pain, and whether you should also see a doctor.
2. Settling the pain. In the acute phase we use positions and movements that take pressure off the nerve, soft-tissue and manual therapy techniques and, where appropriate, TENS or Tecar therapy as a supporting tool. We also show you how to sit, lie and move during the day without aggravating your symptoms.
3. Restoring movement and strength. Through graded exercise therapy we strengthen the trunk and hip muscles, improve spinal mobility and help the nerve move more freely.
4. Preventing a recurrence. We teach you how to lift, bend and set up your desk, and give you a home exercise programme to reduce the chance of the problem returning.
The number of sessions depends on your case. Many patients notice improvement within two to six weeks, but every plan is adjusted to how you respond.
When to see a doctor straight away
Seek urgent medical help if you have:
- difficulty passing urine or controlling your bowels;
- numbness around the groin, inner thighs or genitals;
- weakness in a leg or arm that is quickly getting worse;
- severe pain with a fever, unexplained weight loss, or pain after a serious fall.
These signs are rare, but they need immediate assessment by a doctor or neurosurgeon.
Frequently asked questions about disc herniation
Can a disc herniation get better without surgery?
In most cases, yes. Many people improve with conservative treatment over a period of several weeks to a few months. Surgery is usually considered when there is progressive nerve weakness, emergency signs, or pain that does not settle despite appropriate treatment.
Should I stay in bed if I have a herniated disc?
Not for long. A short rest in the first few days can help, but gentle, controlled movement and light walking usually support recovery. Your physiotherapist will tell you which movements are safe for you.
Do I need an MRI before starting physiotherapy?
Not always. If you already have one, please bring it to your appointment. If the assessment shows signs that need further investigation, we will refer you to a doctor.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
It depends on the stage, how long you have had symptoms and your goals. After the first assessment we give you a clear plan with an approximate number of sessions and exercises to do at home.
Book an assessment
Call us or write on WhatsApp. We will find a time that suits you and assess your case in person.
Mon–Fri 09:00–20:00 · Sat 09:00–14:00 · Rruga Andon Zako Çajupi 24, Tirana
This page is general information and does not replace a medical examination.