Countryfile's Matt Baker has been showered with support as he thanks the NHS and shares an update on his health. Matt Baker, the presenter of the BBC rural affairs show, has revealed that he is dealing with a herniated disc.
He thanked the NHS, including surgeons and nurses, and asked for any advice that could help him. The NHS explains that a slipped disc (also known as a prolapsed or herniated disc) occurs when a soft cushion of tissue between the bones in your spine pushes out.
It can be painful if it presses on nerves, but usually gets better slowly with rest, gentle exercise, and painkillers, reports Wales Online. Matt posted a video clip on Instagram showing him in a hospital gown before enjoying some downtime at Champneys Spa to recover.
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He captioned the clip: "Hi all, any advice for a herniated disc ...? For a long time now I've been dealing with a herniated disc- as an ex gymnast it's hard not to be able to bend forward...
"So I decided to have a nerve block injection, - what a brilliant surgeon and lovely NHS team it was that did my treatment Thank you all! (also a big thanks to the nurse who used to watch me on Blue Peter - the buttered toast was amazing!)"
He added: "Big thanks also to my friends at Champneys for helping me with my rehab it's a very special place. If you know of any good exercises or helpful tips I'd love to hear them.."
Matt received a wave of support after his health news, with TV star Ben Fogle commenting, "Oh Matt. Had one just before I went to Antarctica. Lots and lots of physio." And adventurer Steve Backshall advised, "Like @benfogle physio is key, but don't push it; esp not hyperflexion of lower back. It needs time to heal, and according to my surgeon hates too much stress... good luck Matt and huge love to you all."
Fans also sent their best wishes, with one saying, "Get well soon Matt! Sorry to hear you've been suffering! And yes, there's nothing like buttered toast in hospital!" And another added: "Get well soon Matt, glad you're on the road to recovery."
The NHS explains that a slipped disc might cause pain in your back or neck, numbness or tingling, and muscle weakness. Sometimes, if the disc presses on the sciatic nerve, it can hurt in your buttocks, hips, or legs. But some people don't even know they have a slipped disc because they have no symptoms. If you're in a lot of pain, feel sick, lose weight without trying, have a lump on your back, or the pain is worse at night, the NHS says you should see a doctor.
