“Bulging Disc Ultrasound Treatment”
By Tommy Hoffman, Licensed Physical Therapist
In my profession, I am frequently called upon to perform treatment to clients suffering from a bulging disc diagnosis. As part of that treatment, and as many physical therapists often do, I may opt to initiate modalities that will lend itself well in the healing process of a herniated or bulging disc. One such modality is Ultrasound.
Ultrasound treatment consists of the use of ultrasound waves in the form of a “deep heat” for the purpose of increasing soft tissue temperature below the surface of the skin. Its ability to generate heat and reach the deeper layers of soft tissue may prove beneficial in increasing localized blood flow in the area and improving soft tissue elasticity.
What this means for a person(s) diagnosed with a bulging disk is simple, improved healing time and faster results. And while this may be appealing to a great many of you, it is not accessible without a prescription from your medical doctor.
As a physical therapist, I most often will perform an ultrasound treatment to the level of the bulging disc while the client is placed in positional distraction. It has been my clinical experience that this positional distraction combined with an ultrasound treatment, improves healing and decreases pain symptoms.
Why during positional distraction? Because during this time the level of the spine presenting with the bulging disc and the ensuing “pinched” nerve is that much more accessible. The involved structures are “open” or “un-pinched” and exposure to the ultrasound waves are most optimal.
Phonophoresis for a Bulging Disc is Good Too!
When a physician is more agreeable, I will sometimes request a referral for 10% Hydrocortisone Cream to be used with the ultrasound treatment. This is a prescription strength medication that when combined with the ultrasound treatment is given the term “Phonophoresis”. The ultrasound treatment in this instance uses the ultrasound waves to drive the prescribed medication into the targeted area(s).
While using this kind of treatment approach, the goals are reduced inflammation, decompression at the level of the bulging disc, and improved blood flow to an area in desperate need of healing. These are all very desirable results and may be achievable with a delicate combination of positional distraction and the implantation of a phonophoresis treatment.
As you are currently in physical therapy or seek physical therapy intervention, be sure to inquire about the above treatment option to hasten your recovery. If your physical therapist or physician is not willing to facilitate this course of treatment as it appeals to you, find someone else who will. Your bulging disc will thank you for it.
Good Luck,
Tommy Hoffman, P.T.Tommy Hoffman
