Is Every Back and Neck Pain a Hernia?

Manual therapy specialist Dr. Mehmet Özkent eliminates many conditions such as back, neck, spine, wrist, knee, shoulder, and coccyx problems, which are commonly encountered today, with his manual therapy method. Since manual therapy provides results in a short time and does not require surgery, it has become a preferred method for many patients.

In Turkey, there is a common misconception that every back and neck pain is a hernia. This misconception has also led to an increase in surgical treatments. However, there are many different causes for back and neck pain. Therefore, the correct diagnosis should be the first step in the treatment process. A wrong surgical procedure can lead to bigger health issues. With the manual therapy method, unnecessary surgeries and drug use can be prevented.

What is a Hernia?
A hernia involves the discs, which are structures between the vertebrae that prevent them from rubbing against each other. These discs are slightly harder than an earlobe, although the hardness can vary. Discs that are harder do not cause protrusion, slippage, or compression, while softer discs are more prone to such problems. When a disc pops out, it vacuums and can be put back into place by manipulation (turning). Even if the disc is damaged, it will recover within a few days.

How is the Problem Area Identified with Manual Therapy?
Manual therapist Dr. Mehmet Özkent can diagnose discomforts just by examining the patient’s posture, without needing imaging devices such as X-rays or MRIs. It is very important for the patient to be relaxed during treatment; 90% of patients who relax are able to see successful results during the first session. After identifying a neck hernia with his fingers, Dr. Özkent manipulates the disc back into place.

Does Unequal Leg Length Cause Back Pain?
One of the common causes of back pain in Turkey is unequal leg lengths. Although X-rays and MRIs show this condition, the equality of leg lengths should be checked first. If there is inequality in leg lengths, the treatment process will be determined accordingly.

Does a Hip Dislocation Cause a Hernia?
A hip dislocation occurs when the upper part of the hip bone is pulled downwards. The hip is made up of two parts; a flexible cartilage structure is found in the front, and a more mobile structure is in the back. If a posture disorder occurs due to one leg being longer, shifts may happen in this region.

Is Migraine Treatment Possible?
Migraine is generally caused by the shifting of the C1 atlas vertebra to the right or left. When C1 is placed back in position, the migraine pain disappears. With this treatment method, it is possible to get to the source of the migraine and recover.

What Should Be Considered During Treatment?
It is crucial for patients to relax during treatment. If they do not breathe, they close their joints, making the treatment more difficult. However, relaxed patients achieve 90% success in the first session. Manual therapy yields results in a shorter time compared to physical therapy.

How is Coccyx Disorder Treated?
Coccyx disorders, which are commonly seen in women and football players, can be treated with manual therapy. During the treatment, the therapist inserts a finger into the second section of the anus and applies pressure from below and above. However, interventions made without knowledge may lead to bone fractures. Therefore, this should only be done by specialists. Causes of coccyx disorder include falls, incorrect positions during sexual intercourse, and mistakes during childbirth. During pregnancy, this area must be monitored because having a high coccyx during childbirth may cause tearing and stretching of the perineum. It is important to adjust the coccyx for a natural birth.

What Should Patients Do After Treatment?
After treatment, patients should perform the "towel movement." This movement is done to readjust the legs to their original position after addressing leg length inequality. This habit should continue for 8 months.

Dr. Mehmet Özkent uses the same method to treat hernias, migraines, and coccyx disorders, as well as heel spurs and nerve compression in the hands, which are commonly seen in women. Additionally, he points out that most knee pain is caused by leg length inequality and recommends avoiding unnecessary surgeries.

Although the treatment differs according to each patient's needs, results are usually achieved within 1-5 sessions. Regular patients can live pain-free lives.