Disc Herniations
Disc herniations are a condition that involves the intervertebral discs, which are the cushion-like substance that separates each vertebra. Each disc contains a soft, jelly-like substance within the center known as the nucleus pulposus. Together, the components of the disc act as a shock absorber in the spine.
Due to either degeneration (general wear and tear) or a traumatic injury, the outer portion of the disc can become torn, causing the nucleus to bulge or protrude out. Herniations tend to occur on the side and back portion of the disc, invading the space where the spinal canal and nerves live. Once the herniation compresses or irritates the nerve, the person may experience local pain, radiating pain into the legs or arms and numbness or tingling sensations.
Chiropractic is one of the most-effective conservative forms of treatment for herniated discs. There is a misconception among some medical professionals and the general public that chiropractors simply “pop” the herniation back in place with a forceful manipulation, however this is untrue. Low-force techniques, including flexion-distraction, is effective in treating lumbar disc herniations because it helps to increase disc height and allow the nucleus pulposus to gradually assume its normal position within the center of the disc. Using passive motion, this technique also increases blood flow to the affected area to aid in healing. Together, this technique helps to decrease the inflammation of the nerve and surrounding tissues, and eventually the associated pain and other symptoms associated.
Click here to read more about this condition and how chiropractic treatment can help.
Due to either degeneration (general wear and tear) or a traumatic injury, the outer portion of the disc can become torn, causing the nucleus to bulge or protrude out. Herniations tend to occur on the side and back portion of the disc, invading the space where the spinal canal and nerves live. Once the herniation compresses or irritates the nerve, the person may experience local pain, radiating pain into the legs or arms and numbness or tingling sensations.
Chiropractic is one of the most-effective conservative forms of treatment for herniated discs. There is a misconception among some medical professionals and the general public that chiropractors simply “pop” the herniation back in place with a forceful manipulation, however this is untrue. Low-force techniques, including flexion-distraction, is effective in treating lumbar disc herniations because it helps to increase disc height and allow the nucleus pulposus to gradually assume its normal position within the center of the disc. Using passive motion, this technique also increases blood flow to the affected area to aid in healing. Together, this technique helps to decrease the inflammation of the nerve and surrounding tissues, and eventually the associated pain and other symptoms associated.
Click here to read more about this condition and how chiropractic treatment can help.