Back pain runs rampant among millions of people, whether they’re active or inactive. Most of us depend on its proper function to get through our daily routine. The spine offers movements such as walking and twisting, and it also protects vital organs and supports overall body balance. 

Because we are often putting pressure on our spine and the back’s soft tissues, the structure is vulnerable to injury. So, how do you know if that injury is a disc herniation? 

This article will answer questions including:

  • What is a disc herniation?
  • What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?
  • How did I get a herniated disc?
  • What chiropractic services will cure disc herniation?
  • And more

If you’re suffering from back discomfort and wondering why or how, you may find all you need to know here, so read on. 

What is a Herniated Disc?

To understand what a disc herniation is, you need to understand the structure of the spine. Your spine is made up of several bones called vertebrae. It starts in the neck and travels down the back to the tailbone. Each vertebra is separated by a disc. 

The disc provides a cushion between the bones. It’s there to absorb shock and keep the vertebrae from rubbing together. Spinal discs have a hard, protective outer casing, but inside, the disc is gel-like and soft. 

When the gel-like center of a disc pushes through its harder exterior, the disc has become herniated. There are many severities of this, and pain ranges from mild to intense. Symptoms depend on where in the spine the herniation has occurred. 

Common symptoms of a herniated disc include:

  • Back and low back or lumbar pain
  • Neck pain or motion loss
  • Discomfort when walking, turning, or twisting 
  • Sciatica
  • Radiating pain from the neck into the back or shoulders, or along the spine
  • Pain in one side of the body
  • Sharp pain in one area and numbness in another
  • Pain in the buttocks, thigh, or calf
  • Arm pain
  • Leg pain
  • Weakness
  • Tingling sensation 

These symptoms can take a toll on the body, forcing overcompensation in areas that can lead to further injury. 

Each patient is different, so the same injury in the same place affects people in various ways. However, if you feel any of these symptoms, even if they’re minor, seeking chiropractic care is a great place to start the healing journey. 

How Do Herniated Discs Happen?

There are many scenarios that can cause disc herniation. Sometimes the injury can be pinpointed, but usually, it happens over a period of time or without the knowledge of the patient until later when symptoms start to show up more frequently. 

Common reasons for a herniated disc include:

  • Improper lifting or twisting
  • Aging and regular wear and tear
  • Undue pressure on the disc by surrounding soft tissues
  • A traumatic event, such as a sporting accident
  • Sprains and strains
  • Overuse or repetitive use of specific areas
  • Habitual improper movement patterns

The right chiropractic treatment, inclusive of any necessary rehabilitation and stretching techniques, will help the disc heal so the spine can support you as it’s meant to. 

Prevention for disc herniation include:

  • Ensure your using the proper lifting techniques
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Good posture 
  • Supportive and ergonomic workstation setup
  • Stretch and exercise 
  • Wear proper and supportive shoes

When your core muscles are strong, and you move with intention, you take pressure off the spine and allow the correct soft tissues and joints to work. A strong, healthy body is the best way to ensure its safety. 

Chiropractic Care to Cure Your Disc Herniation

Chiropractors are experts in spinal function and care. Using several safe, non-invasive modalities to restore the affected disc gets you pain-free fast so you can return to your active lifestyle.

Common chiropractic treatments to heal the spine and areas affecting the spine include:

  • Chiropractic adjustment- restores the correct placement of imbalances, removing restrictions and allowing full function
  • Massage therapy- deep tissue manipulation that serves injured soft tissues, reducing inflammation and increasing valuable circulation of blood and oxygen to damaged areas
  • Rehabilitation- when injured, the body needs to find strength, flexibility, and movement as soon as possible; this protects us from worsening or spreading damage
  • And others

Chiropractic solutions provide comprehensive support because the body’s numerous tissues and joints need to work together to support the spine. A full-body assessment will help your chiropractor determine the precise cause of your pain so the optimal wellness plan can be designed around your needs. 

Visit Our Grants Pass Chiropractic Team for Disc Herniation and Beyond 

Healing the body may take more than simply fixing the injured disc. Work with our experienced chiropractic and sports training team in Grants Pass; whether you’re looking to proactively prevent injury, need help training for your next sporting event, or want to lead a healthier, more active life, our team is here to help you reach your goals. 

Contact us today; let’s get you to the finish line.