You may have heard of herniated disc but aren’t sure what exactly it means. If you experience pain in your back, arms, legs or buttocks, disc herniation is one potential cause to consider.
Gaining a better understanding of this condition and associated symptoms can help provide a better idea of whether or not you may be suffering from herniated disc.
What is Herniated Disc?
Herniated disc (or bulging disc) is a condition that impacts 3 million+ people in the U.S. every year. This condition affects the body’s spinal discs, which have a tough outer layer (annulus) and soft interior (nucleus). Disc herniation occurs when the soft center of a disc pushes through one or more cracks or ruptures in the disc exterior, resulting in excess pressure on the spinal nerve or nerve root.
This common condition most often affects the lower back, (lumbar spine), but can also be present in the neck (cervical) and center of the back (thoracic) regions of the spine.
What Symptoms May Be Caused by Herniated Disc?
Symptoms may vary, depending upon the severity of the problem and the area of the body in which the herniation has occurred. While one person may experience only minor symptoms from this condition, others may have more severe symptoms such as:
- Dull or sharp pain and/or stiffness in the back, neck, shoulders, arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling or burning pain in the limbs
- Muscle weakness that may affect mobility
- Pain that radiates to the arms, legs, thighs, calves and/or buttocks
- Bowel or bladder control problems
What Causes Herniated Disc?
One of the most common causes is general wear and tear, as discs degenerate with time and usage. Elderly individuals are more susceptible to this condition due to the gradual weakening and drying of bones as we age.
A sudden, severe impact, such as a car accident or forceful fall, may also cause disc herniation.
Additionally, there are certain medical conditions which may contribute to disc herniation, such as tissue disorders or spinal stenosis.
How Can Herniated Disc Be Treated?
Treatment of herniated disc pain may vary from one patient to the next, depending upon the individual situation. Recommendations are based on the cause, location and extremity of physical damage.
At Coastal Chiropractic in Largo, Florida, we utilize a very effective method of treatment known as the Flexion-Distraction technique, whereas the patient is placed on a specialized table that gently elongates the spine. Spinal discs are then carefully manipulated by an experienced and qualified chiropractor, who will apply light force on affected area(s) to relieve pressure and stimulate rehydration.
This technique is non-invasive and virtually painless, while providing significant relief from pain.
Think You Might Be Suffering from Herniated Disc?
Coastal Chiropractic provides expert, individualized treatments for herniated disc in Clearwater and Largo. Our patients have found substantial relief from their pain as a result of this effective, non-invasive therapy.
If you need herniated disc therapy in Largo & Clearwater, Florida, or an altogether different treatment option, Dr. Marc J. Rogers will work together with you to customize a plan that offers maximum relief from your pain.
To consult with Dr. Rogers, schedule your appointment by calling (727) 581-2774 or using our convenient electronic form to schedule your appointment online.