116. Disc Herniations: Anatomy, Healing, and Rehab Strategies
02/04/25 • 17 min
In this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we break down intervertebral disc herniations—from anatomy and function to healing timelines and progressive loading strategies. We’ll discuss why the disc allows both movement and stability, how its slow healing rate impacts rehabilitation, and why not all herniations lead to leg pain. Plus, we’ll go over clinical considerations for treating patients based on symptom response. Whether you're a physical therapist or a PT student, this episode will give you practical takeaways to improve patient outcomes.
🚀 Don’t forget to check out Feedspot’s Top 45 Physical Therapy Podcasts, where PT Snacks was ranked #19! 🎉 Check it out HERE.
👉 Tune in to learn when to load, when to hold back, and how to get your patients moving with confidence!
Why PT Snacks Podcast?
This podcast is your go-to for bite-sized, practical info designed for busy, overwhelmed Physical Therapists and students who want to build confidence in their foundational knowledge without sacrificing life’s other priorities.
Stay Connected!
- Never miss an episode—hit follow now!
- Got questions? Email me at [email protected] or leave feedback HERE.
- On Instagram? Find unique content at @dr.kasey.hankins!
Need CEUs Fast?
Time and resources short? MedBridge has you covered:
- Get over $100 off a subscription with code PTSNACKSPODCAST: MedBridge
- Students: Save 75% with code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT—a full year of unlimited access for less!
(These are affiliate links, but I only recommend MedBridge because it’s genuinely valuable.)
Want to Support the Show?
Help me keep creating free content by:
- Sharing the podcast with someone who’d benefit.
- Contributing directly via the link below (optional, but deeply appreciated).
Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this...
In this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we break down intervertebral disc herniations—from anatomy and function to healing timelines and progressive loading strategies. We’ll discuss why the disc allows both movement and stability, how its slow healing rate impacts rehabilitation, and why not all herniations lead to leg pain. Plus, we’ll go over clinical considerations for treating patients based on symptom response. Whether you're a physical therapist or a PT student, this episode will give you practical takeaways to improve patient outcomes.
🚀 Don’t forget to check out Feedspot’s Top 45 Physical Therapy Podcasts, where PT Snacks was ranked #19! 🎉 Check it out HERE.
👉 Tune in to learn when to load, when to hold back, and how to get your patients moving with confidence!
Why PT Snacks Podcast?
This podcast is your go-to for bite-sized, practical info designed for busy, overwhelmed Physical Therapists and students who want to build confidence in their foundational knowledge without sacrificing life’s other priorities.
Stay Connected!
- Never miss an episode—hit follow now!
- Got questions? Email me at [email protected] or leave feedback HERE.
- On Instagram? Find unique content at @dr.kasey.hankins!
Need CEUs Fast?
Time and resources short? MedBridge has you covered:
- Get over $100 off a subscription with code PTSNACKSPODCAST: MedBridge
- Students: Save 75% with code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT—a full year of unlimited access for less!
(These are affiliate links, but I only recommend MedBridge because it’s genuinely valuable.)
Want to Support the Show?
Help me keep creating free content by:
- Sharing the podcast with someone who’d benefit.
- Contributing directly via the link below (optional, but deeply appreciated).
Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this...
Previous Episode
115. Anterior Hip Labral Tears
Curious about anterior hip labral tears and how to manage them in a physical therapy setting? In this PT Snacks Podcast episode, let's break down the hip labrum’s anatomy and function, common mechanisms of injury, and practical strategies for conservative management and post-surgical rehab. Learn why glute strengthening, careful exercise progression, and collaboration with orthopedic surgeons can help you achieve better outcomes for your patients—all in about 10 minutes.
Tune in for a bite-sized, evidence-based approach to anterior hip labral tears that will empower you to provide better care for your patients.
Why PT Snacks Podcast?
This podcast is your go-to for bite-sized, practical info designed for busy, overwhelmed Physical Therapists and students who want to build confidence in their foundational knowledge without sacrificing life’s other priorities.
Stay Connected!
- Never miss an episode—hit follow now!
- Got questions? Email me at [email protected] or leave feedback HERE.
- On Instagram? Find unique content at @dr.kasey.hankins!
Need CEUs Fast?
Time and resources short? MedBridge has you covered:
- Get over $100 off a subscription with code PTSNACKSPODCAST: MedBridge
- Students: Save 75% with code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT—a full year of unlimited access for less!
(These are affiliate links, but I only recommend MedBridge because it’s genuinely valuable.)
Want to Support the Show?
Help me keep creating free content by:
- Sharing the podcast with someone who’d benefit.
- Contributing directly via the link below (optional, but deeply appreciated).
Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this...
Next Episode
117. Disc Herniations: Anatomy, Risk Factors & Treatment for Physical Therapists
Not all disc herniations are the same. In this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we break down the four main types of disc herniations (bulging, protrusion, extrusion, and sequestration) and how that factors in to their response to physical therapy. We’ll also dive into key risk factors to better understand who may be more susceptible to disc issues.
Who responds well to physical therapy, and who may require surgery? Learn how to identify patients that are great candidates for rehab versus those who may need surgical intervention. We’ll also cover red flags like progressive weakness and bowel or bladder dysfunction that require immediate attention.
If you’re a physical therapist or PT student, this episode is packed with actionable insights to improve your clinical reasoning and patient care.
Why PT Snacks Podcast?
This podcast is your go-to for bite-sized, practical info designed for busy, overwhelmed Physical Therapists and students who want to build confidence in their foundational knowledge without sacrificing life’s other priorities.
Stay Connected!
- Never miss an episode—hit follow now!
- Got questions? Email me at [email protected] or leave feedback HERE.
- On Instagram? Find unique content at @dr.kasey.hankins!
Need CEUs Fast?
Time and resources short? MedBridge has you covered:
- Get over $100 off a subscription with code PTSNACKSPODCAST: MedBridge
- Students: Save 75% with code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT—a full year of unlimited access for less!
(These are affiliate links, but I only recommend MedBridge because it’s genuinely valuable.)
Want to Support the Show?
Help me keep creating free content by:
- Sharing the podcast with someone who’d benefit.
- Contributing directly via the link below (optional, but deeply appreciated).
Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this...
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