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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

When my mother underwent chemotherapy, we spent a lot of time visiting the phlebotomy lab for blood testing. I was always impressed by how easily the phlebotomist was able to find and puncture a vein to draw blood on the first try. I knew there had to be a method to it, and was astounded by how effortless and painless they made the process. It led me to research a lot about blood tests, from drawing to the actual screening. I've created this site to share what I've learned in the hopes of teaching others. The more you understand, the more control you can have over your own health care.

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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

Herniated Disc Information For Patients That Suspect They May Have This Injury

by Francisco Arnold

A herniated disc can be one of the most painful back problems that you can develop. Due to the pain and disruption that this condition can cause, having a working understanding of this condition can be useful for everyone.

How Will You Know If You Have Developed A Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc can cause extreme pain in your back that may restrict your range of movement and cause extensive swelling. It is important to be mindful of the fact that the symptoms of this injury can occur along a spectrum. As such, some patients may only experience mild symptoms at the start of this condition, and this can lead to them assuming the injury is little more than a muscle strain or other problems. Generally, if you experience back pain for more than a couple of days, you may want to have it evaluated by a doctor. Otherwise, the back injury can worsen, which can increase the severity of the symptoms as well as the complexity of treating it.

How Can You Reduce Your Risks Of Suffering A Herniated Disc?

In addition to being extremely painful, a herniated disc can also be a very disruptive injury to suffer. The recovery period can be many weeks, which can limit individuals from doing their favorite activities or working as they normally would. Being proactive in preventing a herniated disc may not be as difficult as individuals assume. Often, this injury can result from improperly lifting items, which can cause the disc to shift or rupture. Wearing back braces when doing heavy lifting can help to reduce the risk of suffering this injury. This can be particularly important for those that have a history of back problems or that are older.

What Steps Are Needed For Treating A Patient's Herniated Disc?

When a patient has herniated one of their discs, there are a variety of treatment options that may be used. Surgery is often the one that patients assume will be needed for their situation, but it is possible to avoid this in instances where the injury is caught in the early stages. Some patients may find that their disc can heal with the use of chiropractic care, back supports and anti-inflammatory medications. However, the exact treatment option will depend on the patient and the severity of their injury. When surgery is necessary, it is important to avoid delaying this procedure as the injury can rapidly worsen without the surgery.

For more information, contact a local clinic like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates

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