Have you ever heard of a "slipped disc?" It's a misnomer. Discs never slip — but they can bulge. When they do, a chiropractor may be able to help.
Intervertebral disc disorders are referred to as "contained" or "non-contained." A bulging disc is considered a contained disc disorder.
What is a bulging disc?
A bulging disc is the tough outer layer of cartilage between your vertebrae that hasn't fully broken open — think of squeezing a balloon filled with hair gel. The disc may protrude into the spinal canal without pain or rupturing. Instead, a small bubble pops out but remains attached to the disc.
Discs are sized to fit between your vertebrae, so when one bulges, it extends outside the space it should occupy and can push into nerves in your spinal column.
Bulging is part of the normal aging process of the disc, which makes bulging discs an extremely common spinal issue. A bulging disc can stay relatively pain-free and undetected until you twist the wrong way, lift the wrong object, sneeze, or cough. Then it can cause excruciating pain, limit range of motion, and in some cases cause organ dysfunction.
The good news: even an acute disc bulge can heal itself over time, and your chiropractor can help that healing process happen more efficiently. Here are a few steps that ease the pain.
1. Develop a relationship with your chiropractor
There are many treatment options for bulging discs. Talk to your chiropractor and ask questions about your MRI or X-ray. Everyone is different, and a good chiropractor helps you find the right path without closing off any avenue that could get you well.
2. Improve your posture
Reduce or eliminate bending, lifting, twisting, and even sitting for too long. Sleep on your back with your knees propped up, or on your side with a pillow between your legs. These simple adjustments ease stress on the disc in question.
3. Strengthen your core
Your abdominal and leg muscles support your back. Modified yoga or Pilates routines that eliminate twisting, stooping, or bending can help heal a bulging disc and prevent further damage.
Contact our team at Family Tree Chiropractic today if you're suffering from a bulging disc. We'd love to hear from you.