When it comes to physical pain, the back is probably the most common source of pain and discomfort the world over. While there are many different factors that can cause back pain, one of the most common types of injury that will result in severe back pain is a herniated disc. This condition is also commonly referred to as a slipped disc, but it is essentially the same thing as a herniated disc. With a herniated disc being a problem that primarily affects the back, a visit to the chiropractor can be one of the best treatment options.
What is a herniated disc?
The human spinal column consists of 24 vertebrae and in between each of these vertebrae is a spongy disc of soft tissue. The discs of the spine work as a form of shock absorber for the spinal column and they also help the spine to maintain its flexibility. A spinal disc has a tough exterior with a softer jelly-like interior. When the exterior layer of the disc becomes damaged, the softer material that makes up the interior of the disc can leak out and protrude from the disc. This is what occurs when a person is suffering from a herniated disc.
Symptoms and effects of a herniated disc
Though a herniated disc can occur at any location in the spine, the most common location for this type of injury is in the lower back. Depending on the location and extent of the injury, a herniated disc can result in a variety of symptoms. The most obvious symptom of a slipped disc will be pain in the area of the injured disc. Along with that, the disc could also bulge to the point where it puts pressure on nerves in the area. This can result in pain that radiates through the area or down into the limbs. The individual may also experience the sensation of numbness or tingling and there is a possibility that it can result in a reduced level of physical ability or a lack of reflex.
How does a chiropractor treat a herniated disc?
The first step in the treatment of a herniated disc will be for the chiropractor to interview the patient and to perform a physical exam. The chiropractor will need to determine that a herniated disc is indeed the cause of the patient’s pain and they will also need to identify the location of the damaged spinal disc. In this process, the chiropractor will ask the patient questions about the injury and the pain that they are experiencing. The Doctor of Chiropractic will also perform a physical exam to look for signs of the injury and they may also order diagnostic imaging to assist in identifying the location of the injury.
After the chiropractor has performed a thorough examination of the patient, they will then plan a course of treatment. One of the keys to the treatment process for a herniated disc is going to be a manual adjustment. The adjustment will restore the spinal column to its proper alignment and relieve pressure on the injured disc. This should provide some level of immediate relief for the patient, but there is likely to be more to the treatment process than the chiropractic adjustment.
Along with restoring the proper alignment to the spine, the chiropractor will probably have the patient perform some level therapeutic exercise. The exercises will be designed to rehabilitate the disc and restore strength and flexibility to the area of the injury. In many cases, the chiropractor will also offer some advice in regard to lifestyle and they may also prescribe rest for the patient. Beyond the adjustment and exercise, rest can be one of the most effective methods for rehabilitating a herniated disc. All of this being said, the treatment of a herniated disc will vary from one patient to the next, depending on factors like the extent of the injury and the physical condition of the patient.
Chiropractic therapy is one of the best options for rehabilitating a herniated disc. A chiropractor has a fine understanding of the spine and how to identify and treat a variety of physical conditions that cause back pain. For a herniated disc, the treatment options that are accessible through chiropractic care are especially beneficial because the patient can get the relief that they need without having to resort to surgery or drugs.