Can Chiropractic Heal a Bulging Disc?
By Sara Butler
Spinal discs are relatively small structures that can cause big problems, especially when they’re bulging. It can cause pain and decrease a person’s mobility – and they can strike anyone at any time. Chiropractic care has been proven to be an effective treatment for bulging discs and the pain they can cause.
Bulging Discs Defined
Bulging discs often get confused with herniated discs when they’re actually not the same thing at all. Think about a spinal disc as a jelly donut, with a tougher outer layer and soft inner core. When a disc is herniated, there is actually a crack in the outer layer that allows the softer inner core to leak out. A bulging disc differs in that there is no leaking of the inner core. In this instance, the outer layer is intact but bulging in a place where the outer wall has weakened.
Symptoms of a bulging disc can include:
- Tingling in the legs
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness in extremities
- Changes in bladder or bowel function
- Radiating pain in limbs
- Pain when moving the neck
Of course, the symptoms depend on where the bulging disc is located along the spine. A chiropractor can diagnose a bulging disc with a physical exam and history. If a chiropractor at The Joint feels you can benefit from further tests such as an MRI, you will be referred somewhere for one.
How Chiropractic Treatment Can Help
Chiropractic is a natural and non-invasive treatment for chiropractic and is preferred by many patients over other treatment methods. Once a diagnosis is made, the chiropractor will work with the patients on a treatment plan that best addresses symptoms and the underlying issue.
The chiropractor will also look at the entire spine, not just the area affected by the bulging disc. This way, they can determine if joint dysfunction or restriction somewhere else along the spine or in the body is responsible for the added stress and strain on the disc. They also employ adjustment methods that specifically address joint restriction and dysfunction, helping to relieve symptoms and get the body working as it should so healing can take place.
Chiropractic care for bulging discs is effective and safe. If you’re suffering from back problems, your worry may be associated with a bulging disc; discuss it with the chiropractors at The Joint.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.