Disc Herniation
(a.k.a. Slipped Disc)

The intervertebral discs (IVD) are cushions between each spinal bone from your neck to lower back that help to absorb shock. These discs have a jelly-like structure in the center and a firmer, thick outer layer.

Normal aging process and injury can lead to the loss of disc hydration and when complicated with repetitive dysfunctional mechanics, the thicker outer material can tear and allow the inner gel to push outward. In a “slipped disc” situation, the discs do not actually slip. In some cases, the inner gel-like structure pushes outward just enough to cause a disc bulge, but in severe cases, the gel can extrude past the normal boundaries of the disc.

A disc herniation most commonly occurs in the lower back. However, they can also occur in the neck. When a disc herniates, it causes a variety of symptoms because it irritates the surrounding nerves or possibly the delicate spinal cord.

Symptoms of disc herniation can include numbness, tingling, burning, electrical shock-like pain, muscle weakness, sensation deficits, and even bowel or bladder problems. If a disc herniation occurs in the lower back, the symptoms are experienced first starting in the lower back and then down the thigh, calf and into your feet. Disc herniations higher up in your neck will cause symptoms in the arm and fingers.

Can Chiropractic help your disc injury?

A chiropractor can help address back pain and other herniated disc symptoms. To treat a herniated disc, our chiropractor will develop a treatment plan consist of:

• Flexion-distraction
• Spinal Manipulation
• pelvic blocking techniques
• Ice/Heat therapy
• Mobilization
• Corrective Spinal Traction

 

If you’ve suffered a disc injury, make sure that you consult our chiropractor. Chiropractors are specifically educated and trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the musculoskeletal system (the body’s bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, joints and connective tissue) to help patients regain and maintain their spinal health.