Vocational School of Justice
HERNIATED DISC PROBLEM IN WOMEN
Work conditions, inactivity due to weather and lack of exercise cause joint and muscle disorders which have influence on the formation of lumbar herniated disc. It is about twice as common in women than in men. Rıdvan Aktan, Lecturer at Physiotherapy Program at Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir University of Economics, reported that the discs between lumbar vertebrae have standard alignment and to maintain this alignment, lifting objects without bending at the knee or twisting when lifting a heavy item should be avoided.
Aktan pointed that prevalence of lumbar herniated disc was about twice as common in women than in men, and that it may be caused by stress, tiredness, stretching out, bending sideways, air conditioner, and prolonged standing. He said that prevalence of lumbar herniated disc was 60% worldwide, and while 75% of females experienced this, only 45% of males experienced it. Aktan said, “It is important to do physical activities to strengthen the muscle group around lower back. It is also important to choose a lumbar support mattress that fills the natural gap between the lower spines in order to reduce the risk of causing lumbar herniated disc. One should avoid lifting heavy objects. Bending knees would help maintain the balance when lifting objects.”
Aktan also strongly warned about not consulting with people who didn’t have clinical knowledge about lumbar herniated disc. He made the following recommendations:
“People should stay away from alternative methods and chiropractors. They may provide a temporary relief but cause permanent damage such as stroke. Individuals at desk jobs need make sure their chair support their back properly, and they need to get up and do relaxation exercises every hour.”
Aktan reported that the majority of patients got rid of this problem with physical therapy, and that the physiotherapists needed to prepare custom exercise programs for each patient.