How a course is built for osteochondrosis, back and neck pain, disc protrusion and radiculitis, what traction does and when it is not prescribed.
This article is general information and does not replace medical advice. For spinal complaints a procedure is prescribed only after imaging — X-ray or MRI — and an examination.
Back and neck pain is among the most common reasons people come to a sanatorium. The group covers osteochondrosis, disc protrusion, herniated discs, radiculitis and long-standing muscle spasm. One point matters above the rest: a spinal programme is not built before the diagnosis is clear.
Why imaging comes first
The cause of back pain ranges from muscle tension to a disc problem and nerve compression, and the same procedure can be useful in one case and unsuitable in another. Traction, for instance, is prescribed in some situations and firmly contraindicated in others. So if you have an MRI or X-ray result, bring it.
What goes into the course
- Traction, spinal decompression — an orthopaedic method that lowers intradiscal pressure; its indications and contraindications are set precisely.
- SIS therapy — non-invasive magnetic field reaching deep tissue.
- Shockwave therapy — at local pain points.
- A naftalan bath or application — as part of the general programme.
- Therapeutic massage — where muscle spasm comes with it, and not in an acute phase.
- Infrared and paraffin — the heat component.
Neuralgia, neuritis and muscle spasm
For peripheral nerve complaints the programme is built more cautiously: the dose of heat and magnetic procedures is reduced and massage is added only once the acute phase has passed. Starting a sanatorium course during acute pain is not right — the flare has to settle first.
What can be expected
The aim is to reduce pain, soften muscle spasm and support mobility. A herniated disc does not "disappear" with sanatorium procedures, and where surgery is indicated a course does not replace it. The result is individual; the opinion of your neurosurgeon or neurologist outranks the course.
When it is not prescribed
An acute pain phase, loss of sensation, or disturbance of bladder or bowel control — urgent signs that call for a doctor immediately — a tumour process or infection in the spine, a recent fracture, severe osteoporosis, pregnancy. The list is not exhaustive.
Before you travel
Bring your MRI or X-ray, your neurologist's opinion and your medication list — send them in advance if you can. That settles in advance which procedures the course would contain, and whether it is suitable at all right now.
