Herniated disc. Slipped disc. Bulging disc. Pinched nerve. You may have heard all these terms to describe severe pain felt in the back. The fact is, the worst of the bunch is the herniated disc — and a chiropractor may be able to help.
The discs are structures that rest comfortably between your vertebrae, like gel-filled cushions or shock absorbers. A disc can herniate through a tear in the supportive ligaments surrounding it. This can be caused by:
- Sudden injury
- Constant stress
- Improper lifting or twisting of the spinal column
Once the disc ruptures (or herniates), the disc material — somewhat like a jelly — inflames and exerts pressure on the spinal nerves, resulting in pain. In the worst case, the material can push all the way out from between your vertebrae and press on the nerves that branch off the spinal cord.
Your chiropractor will first assess your pain to determine your course of treatment. First, it's important to determine if your reflexes are intact and communicating. Then your chiropractor will check for any loss of muscle strength and confirm whether you have full sensory communication along numerous paths of nerves. These orthopedic and neurological exams help determine which course of action to take next.
A herniated disc is a serious injury. If at any time your chiropractor feels that a spinal surgeon is needed, you'll be referred. Your chiropractor will also check your posture and may order an X-ray or MRI if necessary to help with the diagnostic process.
Will chiropractic care help your herniated disc?
Chiropractors don't pop a disc back in place using force, nor can a few quick treatments "fix" your herniated disc. With gentle and usually painless adjustment techniques, over time a disc can be repaired.
In 2006, a study was published in the prestigious scientific journal Spine. It showed excellent results for chiropractic manipulation in the treatment of disc injuries and sciatica. Go with the experts at Family Tree Chiropractic and get the help you need.