Which medical professionals are best equipped to diagnose and treat hernias. How to choose the right hernia specialist for your specific condition. When should you consult a doctor about a potential hernia.

Understanding Hernias: Types and Symptoms

A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. There are several types of hernias, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms.

• Inguinal hernia: Occurs in the groin area
• Femoral hernia: Appears in the upper thigh
• Umbilical hernia: Develops around the navel
• Hiatal hernia: Forms in the upper stomach area
• Incisional hernia: Occurs at the site of a previous abdominal surgery

Common symptoms of hernias include a visible bulge, pain or discomfort in the affected area, and a feeling of heaviness or pressure. In some cases, hernias may not cause any noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups crucial for early detection.

Primary Care Physicians: The First Line of Defense

When it comes to addressing concerns about a potential hernia, your primary care physician (PCP) is often the first point of contact. These doctors play a crucial role in the initial assessment and diagnosis of hernias.

Role of Primary Care Physicians in Hernia Care

Primary care physicians are equipped to:

• Perform initial physical examinations
• Assess symptoms and medical history
• Order diagnostic tests if necessary
• Provide referrals to specialists for further evaluation or treatment

Can a primary care physician diagnose a hernia. In many cases, yes. PCPs can often identify hernias through physical examination and patient history. However, for complex cases or when additional imaging is required, they may refer patients to specialists.

General Surgeons: Experts in Hernia Repair

General surgeons are among the most common specialists consulted for hernia treatment. These physicians have extensive training in surgical procedures, including various hernia repair techniques.

Why Choose a General Surgeon for Hernia Treatment

General surgeons offer several advantages for hernia patients:

1. Comprehensive surgical expertise
2. Experience with both open and laparoscopic hernia repair
3. Ability to handle complications that may arise during surgery
4. Knowledge of post-operative care and recovery processes

How do general surgeons approach hernia treatment. They typically begin with a thorough evaluation of the hernia, considering factors such as size, location, and the patient’s overall health. Based on this assessment, they recommend the most appropriate surgical technique, which may include mesh repair, tension-free methods, or minimally invasive approaches.

Specialized Hernia Surgeons: Focused Expertise

Some surgeons specialize specifically in hernia repair, dedicating their practice to this particular area of surgery. These specialists often have advanced training and extensive experience in dealing with complex hernia cases.

Benefits of Consulting a Hernia Specialist

Hernia specialists offer unique advantages:

• In-depth knowledge of the latest hernia repair techniques
• Experience with rare or complicated hernia cases
• Familiarity with cutting-edge surgical technologies
• Expertise in minimizing recurrence rates

Are specialized hernia surgeons necessary for all cases. Not always. While they excel in handling complex or recurrent hernias, many straightforward cases can be effectively treated by general surgeons. However, for patients with large, complicated, or recurrent hernias, consulting a specialist may provide additional benefits.

Gastroenterologists: Addressing Hiatal Hernias

When it comes to hiatal hernias, which affect the upper stomach and diaphragm area, gastroenterologists often play a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment.

The Role of Gastroenterologists in Hernia Care

Gastroenterologists contribute to hernia care by:

• Diagnosing hiatal hernias through endoscopy and other specialized tests
• Managing symptoms with medication and lifestyle changes
• Collaborating with surgeons when surgical intervention is necessary
• Providing follow-up care and monitoring for potential complications

How do gastroenterologists diagnose hiatal hernias. They typically use a combination of methods, including upper endoscopy, barium swallow studies, and in some cases, pH monitoring or esophageal manometry. These tests help determine the size of the hernia and assess any associated conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Pediatric Surgeons: Treating Hernias in Children

When hernias occur in infants or children, pediatric surgeons are often the specialists of choice. These surgeons have specialized training in treating surgical conditions in young patients.

Unique Considerations in Pediatric Hernia Care

Pediatric surgeons address several specific factors when treating hernias in children:

• Age-appropriate surgical techniques
• Anesthesia considerations for young patients
• Long-term growth and development implications
• Family-centered care and education

How do pediatric hernia surgeries differ from adult procedures. Pediatric hernia repairs often involve smaller incisions and may not require mesh implants, which are common in adult surgeries. The focus is on minimizing trauma and ensuring proper healing as the child grows.

Obstetrics and Gynecology: Addressing Hernias in Pregnant Women

Pregnancy can sometimes lead to the development or exacerbation of hernias. In these cases, obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-GYNs) play a crucial role in managing hernia care alongside other pregnancy-related health concerns.

OB-GYN Approach to Hernia Management During Pregnancy

OB-GYNs contribute to hernia care in pregnant women by:

• Monitoring hernia progression throughout pregnancy
• Providing conservative management strategies when possible
• Coordinating with surgeons for post-partum repair if necessary
• Balancing hernia care with overall maternal and fetal health

Can hernias be safely repaired during pregnancy. In most cases, non-emergency hernia repair is postponed until after delivery to avoid risks to the fetus. However, in rare cases where a hernia becomes strangulated or poses an immediate threat, emergency surgery may be necessary. OB-GYNs work closely with surgeons to determine the safest course of action.

Choosing the Right Hernia Specialist for Your Needs

Selecting the appropriate doctor for hernia treatment depends on various factors, including the type and severity of the hernia, your overall health, and any coexisting conditions.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Hernia Specialist

When choosing a hernia specialist, consider the following:

1. Experience and expertise in treating your specific type of hernia
2. Surgical techniques offered (e.g., laparoscopic vs. open surgery)
3. Success rates and patient outcomes
4. Hospital affiliations and available facilities
5. Insurance coverage and financial considerations
6. Communication style and patient rapport

How can you ensure you’re choosing the best hernia specialist for your case. Start by getting referrals from your primary care physician or trusted healthcare providers. Research the specialists’ credentials, read patient reviews, and don’t hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple doctors to find the best fit for your needs.

Remember, the right hernia specialist for you will not only have the necessary technical skills but also make you feel comfortable and confident in your treatment plan.

The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care

In some cases, particularly for complex hernias or those accompanied by other health issues, a multidisciplinary approach may be beneficial. This could involve collaboration between various specialists, such as:

• General surgeons
• Specialized hernia surgeons
• Gastroenterologists
• Pain management specialists
• Physical therapists

How does a multidisciplinary approach benefit hernia patients. By bringing together experts from various fields, patients receive comprehensive care that addresses not only the hernia itself but also any related conditions or potential complications. This holistic approach can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life post-treatment.

The Role of Advanced Practice Providers in Hernia Care

In addition to physicians, advanced practice providers (APPs) such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) often play significant roles in hernia care.

Contributions of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants

APPs contribute to hernia care in several ways:

• Conducting initial assessments and follow-up appointments
• Providing patient education on hernia prevention and management
• Assisting in surgical procedures
• Managing post-operative care and recovery

Can nurse practitioners or physician assistants diagnose and treat hernias independently. In many cases, yes. Depending on state regulations and their specific training, NPs and PAs can often diagnose hernias, recommend treatment plans, and even perform certain procedures under the supervision of a physician.

Emerging Technologies and Specialists in Hernia Care

As medical technology advances, new specializations and treatment methods are emerging in the field of hernia care.

Robotic Surgery Specialists

Some surgeons now specialize in robotic-assisted hernia repair, which offers potential benefits such as:

• Enhanced precision and control during surgery
• Smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery
• Improved visualization for the surgeon
• Possibility of addressing complex hernias minimally invasively

How does robotic hernia surgery compare to traditional methods. While robotic surgery offers certain advantages, its overall effectiveness compared to traditional laparoscopic or open surgery can vary depending on the specific case. Factors such as the surgeon’s experience with robotic techniques, the type and size of the hernia, and individual patient characteristics all play a role in determining the best approach.

Hernia Mesh Specialists

With the increasing use of surgical mesh in hernia repairs, some specialists focus on:

• Selecting appropriate mesh materials for different hernia types
• Developing new mesh designs and implantation techniques
• Managing complications related to mesh implants
• Conducting research on long-term outcomes of mesh repairs

Are there alternatives to mesh for hernia repair. Yes, non-mesh repair techniques exist and may be suitable for certain types of hernias or patients with specific risk factors. However, mesh repairs are often preferred due to lower recurrence rates. A hernia specialist can help determine the most appropriate approach based on individual circumstances.

The Importance of Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up

Regardless of the type of specialist who performs your hernia repair, proper post-operative care and follow-up are crucial for optimal recovery and long-term success.

Key Aspects of Post-Hernia Repair Care

Effective post-operative care typically involves:

1. Pain management and wound care
2. Gradual return to normal activities
3. Monitoring for signs of complications or recurrence
4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon or primary care physician
5. Long-term lifestyle modifications to prevent future hernias

How long does recovery typically take after hernia surgery. Recovery time can vary widely depending on the type of hernia, the surgical technique used, and individual factors. While some patients may return to light activities within a week, others may require several weeks before resuming normal routines. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidelines based on your particular case.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Hernia Recovery

In some cases, physical therapy can play a valuable role in post-hernia repair recovery. Physical therapists can assist with:

• Strengthening core muscles to support the repaired area
• Improving posture and body mechanics
• Developing safe exercise routines
• Managing any persistent pain or discomfort

Is physical therapy always necessary after hernia surgery. Not always, but it can be beneficial, especially for patients with large hernias, those who have undergone multiple repairs, or individuals looking to return to high-intensity activities. Your surgeon can advise whether physical therapy would be advantageous in your specific case.

Prevention and Long-Term Management of Hernias

While treating existing hernias is crucial, preventing new hernias or recurrences is equally important. Various healthcare professionals can contribute to this aspect of hernia care.

Lifestyle Modifications for Hernia Prevention

Healthcare providers may recommend several strategies to reduce the risk of hernia development or recurrence:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding heavy lifting or using proper lifting techniques
• Quitting smoking to improve tissue health
• Managing chronic cough or constipation
• Engaging in regular, appropriate exercise to strengthen core muscles

Can hernias be prevented entirely. While it’s not always possible to prevent hernias, especially those caused by genetic factors or certain medical conditions, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly reduce the risk. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can also help catch and address potential hernia-related issues early.

Long-Term Monitoring and Management

For individuals who have had hernia repairs or are at high risk for developing hernias, long-term monitoring may involve:

1. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon or primary care physician
2. Periodic imaging studies to check for recurrence or new hernias
3. Ongoing assessment of risk factors and lifestyle modifications
4. Prompt attention to any new symptoms or concerns

How often should patients have follow-up appointments after hernia repair. The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary based on individual cases. Typically, patients may have a follow-up within a few weeks of surgery, then at 3-6 months, and annually thereafter. However, your healthcare provider will recommend a schedule tailored to your specific needs and risk factors.

Find a Hernia Specialist Near You | Treatment, Surgery, & More for Hernias | University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

Nearest You

Mujjahid Abbas, MD

216-844-7874

Accepting New Patients

Specialty

Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery

Locations (6)

Cleveland (0 mi.)
Cleveland (0 mi.)
Beachwood (5 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)
Westlake (15 mi.)

See Locations

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Christopher Bohac, MD

440-214-3111

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

65 Ratings 16 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (2)

Chardon (21 mi. )
Concord Twp (22 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Wednesday, Jul 5

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Joanna Brown, MD

440-328-3415

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

110 Ratings 19 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (1)

Elyria (28 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Friday, Aug 18

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Vladimir Dubchuk, MD

440-816-5500

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

104 Ratings 12 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (2)

Middleburg Heights (15 mi. )
Westlake (18 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Thursday, Jul 20

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Amitabh Goel, MD

440-415-0115

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

89 Ratings 22 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery, Surgical Critical Care

Locations (3)

Geneva (39 mi.)
Geneva (39 mi.)
Ashtabula (51 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Friday, Jul 14

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

John Jasper, MD

216-831-8255

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

107 Ratings 22 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (8)

Beachwood (5 mi. )
South Euclid (4 mi.)
Beachwood (5 mi.)
Beachwood (7 mi.)
Richmond Heights (8 mi.)
Richmond Heights (8 mi.)
Richmond Heights (8 mi.)
Mentor (19 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Friday, Jul 14

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Leena Khaitan, MD, MPH

440-285-6476

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

71 Ratings 8 Reviews

Specialty

Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery

Locations (6)

Chardon (21 mi.)
Cleveland (0 mi.)
South Euclid (4 mi. )
Beachwood (5 mi.)
Lyndhurst (7 mi.)
Westlake (15 mi.)

See Locations

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

David Linz, MD

440-886-1247

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

130 Ratings 31 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery, Breast Surgery

Locations (4)

Parma (11 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)
Broadview Heights (13 mi.)
Fairlawn (25 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Tuesday, Jul 11

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Mary MacDonald, MD

419-281-0451

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

31 Ratings 0 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (2)

Ashland (60 mi. )
Mansfield (68 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Tuesday, Aug 1

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Jeffrey Marks, MD

216-844-7874

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

52 Ratings 8 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (2)

Cleveland (0 mi.)
South Euclid (4 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Monday, Jul 17

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Raymond Onders, MD

216-844-7874

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

105 Ratings 29 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (4)

Cleveland (0 mi. )
South Euclid (4 mi.)
Beachwood (5 mi.)
Westlake (15 mi.)

See Locations

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Jeffrey Parks, MD

216-831-8255

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

143 Ratings 30 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (5)

Beachwood (5 mi.)
South Euclid (4 mi.)
Beachwood (5 mi.)
Beachwood (7 mi.)
Richmond Heights (8 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Thursday, Jul 20

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Jacob Petrosky, MD

216-844-2273

Not Accepting New Patients

Quality Care Network

Specialty

Locations (1)

Lakewood (10 mi. )

See Locations

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Patrick Renner, MD

440-886-1247

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

137 Ratings 33 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery, Breast Surgery

Locations (3)

Parma (11 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Friday, Jul 7

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Abraham Sayon, MD

440-328-3415

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

73 Ratings 15 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (3)

Elyria (28 mi. )
Cleveland (0 mi.)
North Ridgeville (21 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Monday, Jul 24

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Claudine Siegert, MD

330-235-7430

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

86 Ratings 14 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (1)

Ravenna (29 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Wednesday, Jul 12

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Richard Ungvarsky, MD

440-886-1247

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

78 Ratings 9 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery, Breast Surgery

Locations (3)

Parma (11 mi. )
Parma (11 mi.)
Parma (11 mi.)

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Wednesday, Jul 5

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Liming Yu, MD

440-214-3111

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

52 Ratings 9 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (7)

Chardon (21 mi.)
Solon (12 mi.)
Chardon (21 mi.)
Geneva (39 mi.)
Geneva (39 mi.)
Conneaut (60 mi.)
Conneaut (60 mi.)

See Locations

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Hannah Zhou, MD

330-235-7430

Accepting New Patients

Ratings

56 Ratings 12 Reviews

Specialty

General Surgery

Locations (1)

Ravenna (29 mi. )

See Locations

Seeing New Patients As Soon As

Monday, Jul 24

See Full Profile

Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the last 2 months?

Yes

No

Results are loading…

Hernia Repair Specialist | Dr Iraniha Hernia Repair

Dr Iraniha Hernia Repair Specialist

A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.
Hernias are most common in the abdomen.

However, they can also appear in the upper thigh, belly button, and groin regions. Though the majority of hernias are not immediately life threatening, they will not go away on their own and will require surgical procedure by a hernia repair specialist to prevent potentially dangerous complications.

Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia. They make up about 70 percent of all hernias, according to a hernia repair specialist doctor at the British Hernia Centre. These hernias occur when the intestines push through a weak spot or tear in the lower abdominal wall, often in the inguinal canal.
The inguinal canal is found in the groins of both men and women. In men, it is the area where the spermatic cord passes from the abdomen to the scrotum. This cord holds up the testicles. In women, the inguinal canal contains a ligament that helps to hold the uterus in place.
This type of hernia is more common in men than in women and it can be detected by a hernia repair specialist. This is because a man’s testicles descend through the inguinal canal shortly after birth, and the canal is supposed to close almost completely behind them. Sometimes, the canal does not close properly, leaving a weakened spot prone to hernias.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach protrudes up through the diaphragm into the chest. The diaphragm is a sheet of muscle that helps you breathe by contracting, drawing air into the lungs. It separates the organs in your abdomen from those in your chest.
This type of hernia is most common in patients over 50 years old. If a child has the condition, it is typically caused by a congenital (birth) defect. Hiatal hernias can be treated by your hernia repair specialist. Hiatal hernias may be associated gastroesophageal reflux (when the stomach contents leak backward into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation).

Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical hernias are common in children under six months of age. The defect or weakening of the abdominal wall is near or at the bellybutton. Parents may notice a bulge in or near their child’s bellybutton, especially when the child is crying.
Umbilical hernia is the only kind that have the potential to go away on its own. Therefore, umbilical hernia repair is usually not recommended for children until they are 5 years old and If the hernia has not gone away by this point, a surgery with your hernia repair specialist may be used to correct it.

Incisional Hernia

Incisional hernias can occur after you have abdominal surgery. Your intestines may push through the incision scar or the surrounding, weakened tissue. If you are having some abdominal pain please don’t hesitate in contact a hernia repair specialist near you.

Hernia Repair Specialist

A hernia repair specialist is a surgeon who has a lot of experience in hernia repair, Laparoscopy and Robotic Surgery. Hernia surgery is crucial because it is known for risk of recurrence. So, it should be performed by a hernia repair specialist in order to avoid complications. So, to have a surgery find a specialist around you who have history of doing the best hernia repair surgeries, please call Dr Iraniha at (949) 646-8444. He is one of the best hernia repair specialists in California.

Osteopaths. Making an appointment with an osteopath doctor in Moscow. Where does a good osteopath see?

Treatment without pain, medication or surgery

Herniated disc (often called herniated disc ) is a very serious disease. It is not only accompanied by very severe back pain, but also leads to dysfunction of the spine and the functioning of internal organs.

For example, a herniated disc in the cervical spine causes headache and pain in the arms. A hernia in the thoracic spine can lead to disruption of the lungs and heart. A hernia in the lumbar spine leads to pain in the legs. A neglected hernia can even cause complete paralysis. Therefore, when back pain occurs, it is necessary to carry out a complete diagnosis as soon as possible and, if a hernia is detected, immediately begin treatment.

Hernia is one of the main causes of back pain. According to statistics, it is diagnosed in almost 75% of people who come to clinics because of back pain.

What is a herniated disc and what causes it?

Intervertebral hernia develops gradually due to the accumulation of negative factors. These include spinal injuries, inadequate physical activity, poor posture, weak back muscle corset, metabolic disorders, age-related changes, heredity, and even infections. Often this disease affects those who are engaged in physical labor or lifting weights with age, but in recent years, the intervertebral hernia has become “younger”. The reason is the sedentary lifestyle of young people, which breaks posture and weakens the muscular corset.

The intervertebral disc consists of a nucleus surrounded by annulus fibrosus. With strong twisting against the background of compression or stretching, the vertebrae put pressure on the nucleus, and it on the annulus fibrosus. If at some point the fibrous ring does not withstand the load, a protrusion or rupture of the disc (herniation) occurs. Often the deformed area affects the nerve processes and roots of the spinal cord, which leads to disruption of the organs controlled by this section.

How is a herniated disc usually treated?

With the problem of intervertebral hernia, a person most often turns to a neurologist, surgeon, orthopedist or vertebrologist (chiropractor). Doctors diagnose a severe pain syndrome, deformity of the intervertebral disc and compression of the nerve roots. Accordingly, the treatment is aimed at removing these manifestations and the apparent cause (hernia), without delving into why it was formed. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI is prescribed, and, depending on the condition of the hernia, they offer manual or other techniques for traction of the spine and reduction of the hernia, or surgical intervention.

Recently, there has been a widespread interest in operations all over the world. Previously, it was prescribed only when the hernia caused paralysis of an arm, leg, or other organ, or with rapid deterioration. Now the indications for surgical intervention are expanding all the time. It turns out that classical medicine prefers to simplify the situation by quickly and abruptly intervening in the process, instead of long and carefully restoring the natural state of the spine. In addition, with any treatment techniques, patients are prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, which, with prolonged use, are not harmless to the body.

Meanwhile, according to statistics from American scientists, about 70% of people with herniated discs can successfully recover without surgery.

What treatment of herniated discs does osteopathy offer?

In contrast to the approach of classical medicine, in the view of osteopathy, a hernia is only a consequence of some other disorders. It does not appear suddenly, out of nothing. And therefore, osteopathic doctors try to identify the root causes of the pathology and eliminate them in the first place. The most common causes are:

• Violation of blood circulation and innervation of the intervertebral disc.
• Osteochondrosis and other degenerative diseases of the spine.
• Curvature of the spine, scoliosis, posture disorders.
• Pathologies of internal organs that can distort muscle tone and, through them, distort the skeleton.

Many of these root causes can be eliminated or delayed for many years with the help of osteopathic techniques that restore the mobility of the vertebrae and the circulation of blood, lymph and cerebrospinal fluid. When the intervertebral disc begins to receive a sufficient amount of blood with oxygen and nutrients, it recovers better and withstands damaging loads.

Therefore, the osteopath aims not only to quickly relieve pain or set the disc back into place, but eliminates all the factors that led to this state of affairs. In osteopathy, techniques are used that, on the one hand, have a softer and more precise effect on a person than, for example, in manual therapy, and on the other hand, they penetrate deeper and affect not only bones and muscles, removing blockages and clamps in all structures. organism.

The result is pain relief, reduction of hernia and normal distribution of the load on the spine. Concerning the effectiveness of osteopathy in the treatment of intervertebral hernias, evidence-based studies have been conducted and a number of scientific papers have been written. It has been established that the effect of osteopathic treatment, unlike other methods, persists for several years.

Case study

Vladimir, 45 years old. Six months ago, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc, I was worried about constant pain in my right hand, numbness in my fingers. Surgery was recommended. After the first session of osteopathic treatment, the intensity of pain decreased markedly, the patient stopped taking painkillers. With each session, the pain became less and less noticeable, mobility and sensitivity were restored. After 6 sessions, the spine recovered.

Doctor: Lukashov Nikolai Petrovich
Osteopath, sports medicine doctor, specialist in exercise therapy and rehabilitation.

Patient reviews

I want to thank the talented doctor Loshkareva Larisa Spartakovna for returning to a full life! Six months ago, was diagnosed with a hernia of the intervertebral disc , she was worried about constant pain in her right hand, numbness of the fingers, surgical treatment was recommended. After the first session of Larisa Spartakovna, the intensity of the pain decreased noticeably, I stopped taking painkillers. With each session it became easier and easier, after 6 sessions the pain was completely gone. Many thanks to the excellent specialist Larisa Spartakovna! Vladimir Alekseevich

• Doctor: Loshkareva Larisa Spartakovna
  Osteopath, surgeon, resuscitator, anesthesiologist, gerontologist

What can I say about Alexander Semyonovich?… After my first visit, I was shocked. This simply cannot be! I have intervertebral hernia , recommendations from all doctors – surgery, any movement – pain in the lumbar, moved so “grimacing” that it looked like a question mark. After the first session, the spasm was almost completely relieved, I was able to lean forward a little, which I could not do for 1.5 months. After the second session, there was practically no pain left. Returning to normal life after 5 weeks of constant pain is an indescribable feeling! And to everything else, this is the only doctor who explained to me in a simple and understandable language the essence of the processes occurring in the body. The most striking thing is how the doctor feels someone else’s body, that it is not going the way nature should. And, most importantly, he knows how to fix it. Unfortunately, there is no way to contact him regularly, but as far as possible I try to get to him for a session. Thank you, Alexander Semyonovich, I am very grateful to you! Igor

• Doctor:

Answers to questions

Ask a question

Article views: 25509

A herniated disc, or, as it is often called, a herniated disc of the spine is a very common pathology that affects several aspects of the patient’s health at the same time. First of all, this disease causes severe pain to the patient. In addition, it can lead to the development of numerous complications, among which are:0005

• decreased sensitivity of the muscles of the buttocks, thighs, legs;
• paresis and complete paralysis of the muscles of the lower extremities;
• various disorders of the functioning of the pelvic organs.

Patients with scoliosis and other posture disorders, obesity, lack of certain vitamins and nutrients in the body, as well as the elderly, whose intervertebral cartilage may undergo age-related changes, are primarily at risk of developing this pathology.

How can manual therapy help with spinal hernia?

Some patients consider manual therapy to be nothing more than one of the different types of massage. Despite the outward similarity, the chiropractor works in a completely different way. Its main task is to properly warm up the patient’s muscles in the affected area, after which, with the help of gentle pressure, he tries to eliminate the displacement of the “popped out” intervertebral disc and release the pinched nerves, relieving pain.

A qualified chiropractor – and in our medical center in St. Petersburg, such specialists accept patients – will not take responsibility for the treatment of an unexamined patient. Be sure to bring an x-ray of the area of ​​the spine that causes concern with you to your appointment! The hernia should be visible on it in several projections.

Manual therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat herniated cervical and lumbar spine. At the same time, treatment can be started at any stage of the disease, regardless of how strongly the fibrous ring surrounding the intervertebral disc protrudes. However, by seeking the help of a specialist at the very beginning of the disease, it is possible to prevent its progression and the development of numerous complications. Do not wait until the discomfort and pain become unbearable – contact us!

Methods that a chiropractor uses in the treatment of a patient with a hernia

Depending on which part of the spine the hernia is located in and the cause of its development, as well as the presence of concomitant diseases in the patient, the treatment regimen is developed individually in each case. At the same time, manual therapy methods are not its only component. Treatment also includes making adjustments to the patient’s lifestyle, and recommendations for changing his diet, and selecting the optimal physical activity for him, and many other equally important aspects.

In most cases, in patients with intervertebral hernia, the chiropractor carefully stretches the spine in the first sessions – this is necessary to release pinched nerves and eliminate pain. After that, the patient’s treatment regimen can be adjusted – in particular, the specialist introduces into it such manual therapy techniques that contribute to the regeneration of destroyed cartilage and muscle tissues.

Spinal herniation is often the result of a patient being overweight. In this case, the use of acupuncture, as well as exercise therapy and dieting, will also help to make the treatment more effective. If the deformation of the intervertebral cartilage is provoked by the patient’s posture disorders, then osteopathy and wearing a special corset that supports the patient’s body in the correct position will help achieve a stable positive result.

How does it work?

The positive effect of spinal hernia treatment by manual therapy methods is based on several aspects:

• first of all, it is the restoration of blood circulation in the muscle tissues, helping to maintain the anatomically correct position of the spinal column;
• in addition, under the hands of a chiropractor, structures “come to life” that nourish the cartilage tissue and provoke the flow of fluid, oxygen, and collagen naturally produced by the body into it;
• this contributes to the natural regeneration of tissues, during which it is important to take timely measures so that the restored intervertebral disc assumes the correct position.

The main sign that manual therapy really helps to eliminate a spinal hernia is the elimination or at least a decrease in the severity of spasms and pain in the affected area. Already during the first session, the patient should feel a pleasant warmth replacing them.

Results of hernia treatment with manual therapy

The effectiveness of the treatment can be judged by the presence of the following changes in the patient:

In fact, manual therapy is a universal technique for the treatment of herniated discs. It works in cases where drug treatment is ineffective or impossible for some reason. A course with a good chiropractor in many cases allows you to avoid surgical treatment, restoring health to the joints and bones without drastic measures.