Bulging, slipped, ruptured – These are all terms used to describe a common spinal condition known as a herniated disc. Herniation occurs when a part of the body gets out of place and becomes trapped where it shouldn’t be. While hernias can occur in various parts of the body, such as the abdomen, spinal disc herniation is one of the more painful forms of this problem.
At Carolinas Chiropractic and Spinal Rehab, we often treat patients suffering from herniated discs. While the condition can be very painful, effective solutions are available that don’t involve surgery or drugs.
What Are Spinal Discs Made Of?
The spine contains fibrous material between its vertebrae. Within this fibrous material is a gel-like substance known as nucleus pulposus. Combined, these materials form the disc that acts as a spongy cushion, allowing for movement, flexion, compression, and other forms of movement.
When this material slips out of place or becomes herniated, it can lead to pain. In many cases, this pain is chronic in nature as it is not due to an acute injury.
How Do Spinal Discs Become Herniated?
Herniated discs are sometimes referred to as “ruptured” discs because the disc’s outer layer tears or ruptures, allowing the inner material to bulge out. Although the term “rupture” suggests something breaking, the real issue is the displacement of the disc’s inner material.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of herniated discs, including:
Age and Wear
As we age, the discs in the spine become less flexible. In many cases, this is due to a lack of hydration. While some loss of hydration and flexibility is normal, degenerative disc disease can also play a part.
Acute Injury
Although some cases of disc herniation can involve chronic pain that is not due to an immediate injury or threat to the body, many cases of a herniated disc do involve acute injury. Falls, car accidents, and more can all lead to disc herniation.
Body Mechanics
Repetitive motion, poor posture, and additional strain from excess weight and obesity can all lead to disc herniation. This is one of the reasons why our chiropractors take the time to evaluate each patient on an individual basis to assess any special considerations that may affect spine health.
The Role of Pain in a Herniated Disc
Pain is often the first signal that something is wrong with your spine. In the case of a herniated disc, pain occurs when the inner material presses against or irritates a nearby nerve. This is especially true if the herniation occurs in the lower back or neck.
Some symptoms of a herniated disc can include:
- Sharp pain in the lower back or neck, which may radiate into the arms or
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities due to nerve
- Muscle weakness that makes it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as lifting or
The intensity of pain varies depending on the severity of the herniation and the extent of nerve involvement. Sometimes, a herniated disc may not cause significant pain until it presses directly on a nerve.
Chiropractic Care for Herniated Discs
Chiropractic care offers a drug-free, non-invasive approach to treating herniated discs. At Carolinas Chiropractic and Spinal Rehab, we use a variety of techniques to alleviate pain and promote healing, including:
Manual Adjustments
Gentle spinal manipulation helps to realign vertebrae, reduce pressure on affected nerves, and improve spinal mobility. This process can relieve discomfort associated with a herniated disc by restoring balance to the spine.
Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression is a technique that gently stretches the spine, creating space between the vertebrae. This reduces pressure on a herniated disc and helps it retract, taking pressure off the nerve and relieving pain.
Rehabilitation Exercises and Lifestyle Modifications
Our chiropractors offer personalized guidance for specific exercises designed to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. A strong, stable core is often one of the keys to reducing the risk of future herniations.
Our team also provides recommendations for lifestyle modification of your daily routine, posture, and body mechanics to help prevent further injury. Simple adjustments, like lifting correctly and maintaining a healthy weight, can have a profound impact on your spinal health.
Will a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own?
While minor herniations can move back into place on their own, most require some form of intervention. Even if a herniated disc isn’t causing severe pain right now, the condition can worsen and lead to mobility concerns and pain in the future. As a precaution, we encourage anyone concerned about a herniated disc to be evaluated by one of our friendly chiropractic physicians.
Schedule Your Appointment With Our Chiropractors in Waxhaw and Pineville
If you’re experiencing back or neck pain, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. The team at Carolinas Chiropractic and Spinal Rehab is here to help you find relief and restore your spinal health. Call us today at (704) 243-1010 or schedule your appointment online.
