Suffering From a Bulging or Herniated Disc?

Despite their smaller size, spinal discs play a critical role in keeping the body functioning pain-free. When one of these discs herniates, the resulting pain symptoms can be excruciating.

Spinal discs are composed of a jellylike nucleus which is enclosed in a tough material that protects them from damage. However, daily wear and tear, vigorous activity, and sudden trauma can cause the spinal disc to herniate. When a disc herniates, the protective material tears, allowing the nucleus to seep out.  This can compress the nerves flowing through the spinal canal, causing shooting pain which travels to other areas of the body.

Herniated discs are one of the most painful back problems a person can experience. The tightness and shooting pain can literally be unbearable. Additionally, disc herniation often results in motor dysfunction, impairing your ability to bend, twist and even walk.

Symptoms will typically worsen when you’re active. Even the smallest motions, such as sneezing, coughing, or laughing, can aggravate pain symptoms.

A herniated disc can occur at any point in the spine, from the neck down to the hips. However, symptoms of a herniated disc will vary widely depending on which area of the back is experiencing a herniation.

The lumbar spine lives within the lower back, and it extends from tops of the hips to the bottom of the ribs. 

 A lumbar herniated disc results in symptoms that mimic sciatica:

• Radiating pain in the buttocks, thigh, and calf
• Numbness or tingling
• Pain in the foot
• Weakness

Herniated discs at the thoracic level are very rare, as this area is what’s considered the middle back. This area extends from the bottom of the ribs to the shoulders. 

In the case of a thoracic herniated disc, symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling
• Organ pain
• Weakness
• Fatigue

The cervical spine extends from the base of the skull to the shoulders, and we more regularly refer to it as our neck. 

When a cervical disc herniates, symptoms include:

• Weakness
• Numbness or tingling
• Radiating pain in the shoulder and arm
• Shooting pain when coughing or sneezing

In treating a Herniated Disc our providers will use a variety of treatments.

We may use these in conjunction with one another to provide the best recovery for you....

• Chiropractic Care
• Ultrasound
• Physical therapy
• Massage Therapy
• Electric Stimulation