A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear or crack in the outer layer. This can put pressure on the spinal nerves and cause pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the affected area. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine).
Some of the most common causes of herniated discs include:
- Age-related degeneration
- Trauma or injury
- Repetitive motions
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Smoking
- Poor posture
It’s important to note that a herniated disc can occur without any obvious cause, and sometimes it is not clear what causes it. It’s also important to remember that a herniated disc may not cause symptoms, and not all symptoms are caused by a herniated disc.
Chiropractic Care For Herniated Discs
At Sidney Chiropractic, our chiropractors treat herniated discs using a variety of techniques, including spinal adjustments and spinal decompression. Spinal adjustments, also known as manual manipulation, involve the use of precise, controlled force to adjust the position of the spinal vertebrae and reduce pressure on the nerves. This can help to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment that uses a special table to stretch the spine and create negative pressure within the disc. This can help to reduce the bulging of the disc and take pressure off the nerves. Spinal decompression can also help to promote the reabsorption of the herniated material back into the disc.
Both Spinal adjustments and decompression are safe and effective treatment options for herniated discs and can be used in combination with other therapies, such as physical therapy and exercise.
If you or a loved one suffer from a herniated disc, call us today at (937) 492-4681 to schedule a free exam and consultation.