What to Know About Herniated Discs

Herniated discs, also known as slipped or ruptured discs, are a common spinal condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort. The spine is made up of a series of vertebrae with cushion-like discs in between them. When a disc becomes herniated, its inner gel-like material protrudes through the outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing various symptoms. While herniated discs can be a source of distress, understanding the condition and seeking appropriate care from an Urbandale chiropractor can lead to relief and an improved quality of life.

Understanding Herniated Discs: Causes and Symptoms

Herniated discs can occur due to various factors, including age-related wear and tear, repetitive stress on the spine, lifting heavy objects improperly, or sustaining a sudden injury. As we age, the discs lose some of their water content, making them less flexible and more prone to herniation. In some cases, a sudden twisting or lifting motion can put excessive pressure on a disc, causing it to herniate.
The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Common signs include:

• Pain: The pain may occur in the lower back, neck, or radiate down the arms or legs. It can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations.
  
• Muscle Weakness: Herniated discs can compress nearby nerves, leading to muscle weakness, particularly in the arms or legs.
  
• Sciatica: If a herniated disc is pressing on the sciatic nerve, it can cause sciatica, characterized by pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates down one leg.
  
• Changes in Reflexes: In some cases, a herniated disc can affect reflexes, leading to abnormal responses in certain areas of the body.
  

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Managing Herniated Discs

Chiropractic care offers a non-surgical and drug-free approach to managing herniated discs. Chiropractors like Dr. Shane Hoffman at Thrive Family Chiropractic are experts in the musculoskeletal system and the spine. They can diagnose and treat herniated discs through a combination of specialized techniques.

Spinal adjustments are a cornerstone of herniated disc treatment. By carefully realigning the spine, chiropractors can alleviate pressure on the affected discs and nerves. This can lead to a reduction in pain and promote the body's natural healing process.

Chiropractors may also use decompression therapy to relieve pressure on herniated discs. This technique gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs, which encourages the retraction of the protruding material.

Chiropractic Care for Herniated Discs

If you are experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc, seeking prompt and appropriate care is crucial for a swift recovery. Dr. Shane Hoffman at Thrive Family Chiropractic in Urbandale is dedicated to helping patients find relief from pain and improve their overall well-being.

At Thrive Family Chiropractic, the focus is on providing individualized care that addresses the root cause of the problem rather than just managing symptoms. Dr. Hoffman believes in empowering his patients with knowledge and self-care strategies to support their recovery and prevent future issues.

If you or a loved one is dealing with symptoms of a herniated disc, consider visiting Thrive Family Chiropractic to take the first step towards a pain-free and thriving life.

Sources

Dydyk, A.M., Massa, R.N., Mesfin, F.B. “Disc Herniation.” StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28722852/
Schoenfeld, A.J., Weiner, B.K. “Treatment of lumbar disc herniation: Evidence-based practice.” International Journal of General Medicine, 2010; 3: 209–214. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2915533/