PT: nmes experience cervical herniated disc

[lynette]

Just wondering if anyone has had this for there rehab for cervical disc herniation. I think its called neuro-muscular electrical stimulation. I was remarkably better after one session with heat massage ultrasound and nmes. She said I have alot of trigger points in my neck and shoulder muscles and could take some time to work out.She also started some basic core strengthing with just pilates type breathing and contracting of my abs and core on exhalation. I am 5 months post microdiscectomy and due to the neck herniation havent been able to do much to strengthen lower back. Since wed. when I did these core excersises I have had the lower back fatigue and has me discouraged since I felt like a million bucks last weekend. Has anyone still had that back fatigue that far out after microdiscectomy?

[Toebin]

Hi Lynette,

I'm a cervical fusion patient c5/6-6/7 but I have had electrical stim as part of my PT along with ultrasound and massage.

I found it a very comfortable treatment, unfortunately I have a bunch of other odd stuff going on and nothing much lasts as far as stretch, massage, electrical stim on me. As soon as I stand up my muscles start going into spasm and just stay that way.

I'm glad you found something that seems to be helping with your discomfort.

I have not had any lower back procedures although I have 3 (or 4, can't remember) herniated, bulging disc's there as well. So far so good after epidural injections to them and I have no complaints right now in that area.

5 months isn't a huge amount of time post op for any back surgery, give yourself some time ... as everything needs that to heal up and work like it use to.

I hope you continue to feel better and that your cervical issues can be controlled by non invasive methods.. Hang in There !!

[Harrison]

HI Lynette, long time no talk! Please see the FAQ on this topic, and we can catch up by phone later this week (it's easier for to talk through than write).

Also, search for "TENS" or related words for electrical muscle stimulation (here and Google). This is a surprisingly complex area of treatment, in terms of available technologies and outcomes. More specifically, some of the variables:

- cause of trigger points (disease or "simple" nerve impingement);
- patients overall condition (overall health, every day stressors);
- types of equipment for muscle stimulation (ultrasound, cold laser, direct electrical like TENS, newer, expensive treatments with energy machines, like Ondamed, etc.)

OK, ttyl

Toebin, good luck on your next steps. Thx for sharing!

[lynette]

Thanks for all your encouragement.I have continued to improve this week. I am so thankful to have found a good PT. She put me on a recumbent bike for 10 min on friday, and I had my heart rate up to 120!! The first time in 6 months.I woke up sat am with a terrible muscle cramp in my right calf. I have never had muscle cramps before, it's Sun and still sore! I have only had to take 2 valium this week. I have added a lot of stretches and starting arm strengthening and so far everything is stable with no arm symptoms. Lynette

[Toebin]

Ohh that's WONDERFUL news Lynette, I hope things continue on the upswing for you !!!!!