Exercise can be a key part of a bulging disc treatment plan, as one of your goals should be to strengthen the muscles that support the spine to help reduce the pressure on the affected spinal disc. However, doing the wrong exercises could also exacerbate your condition. For this reason, you should always consult with a physician before attempting any type of exercise when you are experiencing neck or back pain.

Here are five common exercises that you should avoid if you are undergoing bulging disc treatment, as well as some possible alternatives:

• Toe touches. If you want to stretch your hamstrings, consider doing a supported stretch by placing one heel at a time on a chair to reduce the amount you have to bend your waist.
• Leg raises. This exercise can place an extreme amount of strain on the lower back. Instead, consider reverse curl ups.
• Running. The impact of running — even on a treadmill — can aggravate a bulging disc. Consider walking or using an elliptical machine for the same benefits.
• Aerobics. The bending, twisting and impact of aerobics makes it a risky choice. Swimming can provide the same type of cardiovascular benefits without the strain.
• Crunches or sit-ups. A plank is a much safer way to work on your core without having to bend your lower back.

There are several other conservative treatments that can be attempted along with stretching and strengthening exercises, including the use of pain and anti-inflammatory medications, hot and/or cold therapy and lifestyle modifications designed to promote better spine health.

Bulging disc treatment at USA Spine Care

When conservative treatments fail and symptoms persist, surgery becomes a consideration. One option is minimally invasive surgery at USA Spine Care, which utilizes a less than 1-inch incision and muscle-sparing techniques and requires no lengthy recovery.

If you would like to learn more about the outpatient procedures we offer as a bulging disc treatment option, contact USA Spine Care today. Be sure to ask about receiving a free MRI review* to determine if you are a candidate for our minimally invasive surgery.