L5-S1 Disc Bulge Injury

by | May 13, 2025 | Media Post

L5-S1 Disc Bulge Injury

What is a disc injury?
Disc injuries refer to damage or dysfunction of the intervertebral discs, which are the soft, cushion-like pads between the bones (vertebrae) of your spine. These discs act as shock absorbers and allow flexibility in your back. Disc injuries are common, especially in the lumbar spine (lower back).

L5/S1 disc injuries affect the disc located between the 5th lumbar vertebra (L5) and the 1st sacral vertebra (S1) – the junction between the spine and pelvis. This area is a common site for disc herniation and degeneration because it bears significant weight and endures a lot of mechanical stress, especially during bending and lifting.

What causes disc injuries?

Disc injuries can be categorized into two main causes:

  1. Degeneration – normal age-related wear and tear to the disc
  2. Mechanical/Traumatic causes, which can include:
    • Heavy lifting or repetitive bending, especially with poor technique
    • Sudden trauma or impact – falls, car accidents, sports injuries
    • Prolonged sitting or poor posture
    • Overuse and repetitive stress – jobs involving heavy physical labor, heavy weightlifting etc.

Other risk factors:

  • Obesity
  • Poor core strength
  • Family history/Genetic predisposition

What are the symptoms of L5/S1 disc injuries?

  • Lower back pain at the base of the spine
  • Sciatic pain (sharp or burning pain down the buttock, leg and foot)
  • Numbness and tingling in the back of the leg and foot
  • Weakness in the leg and foot

How can osteopathy help?

Our Osteopaths can help with the management of disc injuries in multiple ways, including:

  • Assessment and diagnosis of your condition
  • Manual therapy to relieve pain and improve mobility
  • Exercise prescription to improve strength and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to your pain
  • Education and advice on pain management and lifestyle modification to help manage your condition

 

If you have questions about disc injuries and how our osteopaths might be able to help, please call us on 03 5968 6889 or email info@emeraldosteopathy.com.au. We would love to work with you!

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