What You Need to Know About Herniated Discs
By Rachel Carver
People with herniated discs can experience severe pain. Some minor back pain may subside on its own, but pain this severe needs treatment.
Natural, drug-free, and affordable care at The Joint Chiropractic is your answer to herniated disc pain. Additionally, The Joint can address spinal dysfunctions before they become a bigger problem.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
The human spine is composed of multiple vertebrae. Rubbery cushions, or discs, rest between the spinal vertebrae. These discs contain a soft, jellylike center. A problem occurs when this soft center pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer, causing a herniated disc. A herniated disc can put pressure on nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in arms or legs.
Symptoms
It is possible for a herniated disc to develop in your spine without symptoms. This is why regular chiropractic care is so important. However, a herniated disc can cause symptoms, including:
- Arm or leg pain caused by a herniated disc in your lower back
- Radiating numbness or tingling caused by a herniated disc putting pressure on a nerve connected to the area
- Muscle weakness caused by extra nerve pressure
Causes
Spinal discs become less flexible with aging, which can result in a tear from even a minor strain or twist. It is usually hard to identify the cause of a herniated disc. Lifting with your back instead of your legs can rupture a disc. A fall or being hit in the back is not likely to cause a herniated disc.
Traditional Treatment Options
Treatment often begins with decreasing activity and taking medications. The body can naturally heal itself if the swelling goes down. However, spinal dysfunctions must be addressed to correct the problem. Surgery is needed to replace the ruptured disc in extreme cases.
Chiropractic Care Provides Relief
Chiropractic care can provide relief to people with minor disc herniations. When surgery is not required, this treatment can be used with or without anti-inflammatory medications. Proper alignment can decrease your risk for developing a herniated disc. Spinal adjustments can also decrease disc pressure, which helps prevent disc failure.
Whether you know you have a herniated disc or are wondering if you might, easily find care at your neighborhood Joint Chiropractic clinic. The Joint team will evaluate your back and work with you to come up with next steps. Don't suffer with pain. The Joint's walk-in visits and affordable pricing make care accessible to everyone.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Albuquerque, N.M.