A herniated disc is one of the most common back problems people face. In fact, data estimates that millions of individuals will experience this type of back injury at some point in their lives. A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like center of a disc (called the nucleus) pushes through a tear in the exterior of the disk (called the annulus). While more common in the lower back, this type of injury can occur at any point in the spine.
Chiropractic care is one of the most common—and effective—non-surgical methods for treating herniated discs. As a safe and non-invasive approach to care, many patients prefer chiropractic care.
Governor’s Park Chiropractic is your premier Denver area full-service chiropractic firm. We proudly offer a wide range of therapeutic services, including chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, acupuncture, massage therapy, and more. With years of experience and a knowledgeable and friendly staff, let us help you begin your journey toward better health.
Interested in learning more about herniated discs? Read on to find answers to the most frequently asked questions about a condition that millions of people suffer from.
Herniated Disc FAQs
What is a herniated disc?
Intervertebral discs are located between each vertebra of your spine. They are designed to cushion your movements. There’s a gel-like substance inside of the discs known as nucleus pulposus. The outside of the disc is a tire-like outer band known as the annulus fibrosus. When the nucleus bulges past the annulus, it’s called a herniated disc.
What causes a herniated disc?
In most cases, herniated discs occur due to wear and tear on the spine. It is considered a natural part of aging. As you age, your intervertebral discs become less elastic and lose water content, making them more susceptible to herniation. Herniation takes several weeks or months to occur. It is also possible for a disc herniation to occur from incorrect lifting or twisting, which irritates weakened discs.
What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
Depending on various factors, individuals will experience a herniated disc in different ways with unique symptoms. Some may not even experience any pain or other symptoms from their disc herniation. In these cases, the injury may heal naturally over time.
Some of the most common symptoms of a herniated disc include:
- Arm or leg pain: while a herniated disc, especially in the lower back, will tend to cause pain in the lower back, this pain can also spread elsewhere to nearby nerves. Many patients experience pain in their arms or legs and may also experience neck pain. The pain from the lower back may also radiate out to the buttocks, calves, or thighs.
- Weakness: muscles and nerves that are afflicted by the herniated disc have a tendency to weaken over time. This weakness can cause you to stumble, lose balance, or have trouble with daily tasks and activities.
- Numbness and tingling: a herniated disc may also cause someone to experience a radiating sense of numbness or tingling that stems from the disc.
Is Surgery Required?
Many patients respond well to non-surgical treatments for herniated discs. In some cases, the pain from the herniated discs heals on its own after four to six weeks. Surgery is typically recommended if non-surgical treatments don’t work. A surgeon can recommend the best type of surgery, such as an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, laminectomy, or corpectomy.
What Are the Non-Surgical Treatment Options?
There are several non-surgical healthcare options for treating a herniated disc, including:
- Icing the initial injury for the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling, spasms and pain.
- Heating the areas for the first 48 hours to relax sore tissues (20 minutes at a time).
- Reducing activity that increases pain, such as running or vigorous exercise.
- Using over-the-counter drugs and prescription pain medications.
- Performing light exercises like walking and swimming (consult with your physician first).
Conclusion – Herniated Disc FAQs
If there are other herniated disc FAQs you’d like answers for, or you’d like to schedule an appointment to find out about options for back pain treatment in Denver, please call the Governor’s Park Chiropractic office nearest you today.
Governor’s Park Chiropractic was founded on the belief that every patient is unique. This is why we personalize our treatment programs to meet the specific needs of each patient. Our entire chiropractic office is here to help you recover faster and prevent future injuries. With our non-invasive and holistic therapy techniques, we can offer you the care you deserve.
Whether it’s a sports injury or herniated disc, we can help. In addition to general chiropractic care, we also specialize in a variety of treatments, including spinal manipulation, acupuncture, and massage therapy. Whether you’re looking to eliminate chronic pain or trying to prevent future injury, Governors Park is there for you.
Contact us at Governor’s Park Chiropractic to learn more about how we can help you recover from your injuries and live a better life.