Health Conditions News
A slipped disc is caused by the soft cushion (disc) that sits between the vertebrae, protruding or rupturing and pressing against nearby nerves. In young adults, gym-related slipped discs may occur from improper lifting methods while lifting weights during movements such as squats, deadlifts, or overhead presses.
Exercises in gyms are beneficial for the strength and fitness of the body in general, but bad techniques or excessive strain on the body can lead to serious injuries to the spine, like slipped discs.
New Delhi: As gyms have gained in popularity, particularly among young adults, the desire to build strength, stamina, and muscle has become intense. People tend to test their limits, lifting heavy loads and trying difficult movements without proper coaching. Unfortunately, when individuals lift heavy weights or perform complicated exercises without proper instruction, they put their spines at risk, which ultimately leads to serious injuries, such as a slipped disc or herniated disc. Such injuries are painful and, if not recognised soon enough, can become troublesome in relation to mobility and quality of life.
Dr. Jaskaran Singh, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital Patiala, decoded this for News9Live.
Causes of a slipped disc
A slipped disc is caused by the soft cushion (disc) that sits between the vertebrae, protruding or rupturing and pressing against nearby nerves. In young adults, gym-related slipped discs may occur from improper lifting methods while lifting weights during movements such as squats, deadlifts, or overhead presses. Alternatively, it may also occur while simply lifting weights that exceed a normal person’s capacity. Strain may be caused to the spine from sudden or jerking movements while lifting weights, as well as the lack of stability and support from weak core muscles.
Tips to Prevent and Manage Spine Injuries:
- Proper Technique: Learn and maintain safe posture while exercising, and use a certified trainer when proper posture is not established.
- Strengthen the Core: A strong core will give good support to the body and spine and reduce the risk of injury to the spine.
- Stretching and Warm-Up: A good warm-up and muscle preparation before the workouts will cause less strain.
- Listen to Your Body: Stop immediately if you feel any pain or discomfort in your body.
- Allow Time to Recover: It is important to take rest days into the training schedule to reduce the injuries from happening.
- Medical Intervention: If a patient has not improved or has had ongoing pain associated with a slipped disc, surgical interventions such as microdiscectomy, endoscopic discectomy, or spinal fusion can be considered.
Exercises in gyms are beneficial for the strength and fitness of the body in general, but bad techniques or excessive strain on the body can lead to serious injuries to the spine, like slipped discs. Awareness of potential risks, ensuring that attention is paid to correct form, core strengthening, and ensuring adequate rest with proper diet between workouts, are all ways to minimise the risk of injury.
Simran Arora
Simran Arora is a Chief Sub Editor for the health beat at News9. With 6 years of experience in the industry, she looks at news, features and every unique development in the health sector.
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