A bulging and herniated disc occurs when the inner portion of the disk pushes into the spinal canal through a rupture in the outer protective layer of the disk. A herniated disk can result in a great deal of pain or weakness that can radiate from the back to the legs and arms.
CAUSE OF PAIN
Aging and physical trauma are the primary causes of bulging and herniated discs. As we age, the discs in our spine degenerate, becoming stiff, while losing some of the protective fluid that serves to absorb shock and provide our spine flexibility. When the discs stiffen, they become more prone to tiny tears and cracks in which the thick gel inside bulges out, thus a bulging and herniated disc, which puts pressure on the spine, causing pain, and potentially other ailments.
Generally, the disc is ruptured by heavy strain or pressure on the spinal cord. Heavy lifting is a prominent cause of herniated and bulging discs. Sports injuries are also a common occurrence.
DIAGNOSING BULGING AND HERNIATED DISCS
Understanding the symptoms goes a long way in diagnosing bulging and herniated discs. Generally, if a patient is experiencing shooting pain, or pain that travels down the limbs, it is a result of a nerve impingement. Tingling, numbness and muscle cramping are also indications that there may be an impingement in the spine. A thorough physical examination, as well as X-Ray and MRI imaging will allow us to complete our diagnosis.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE AND TREATMENT
Chiropractic treatment is one of the most popular alternative treatment methods for back pain, including pain caused by a bulging and herniated disk. A chiropractic adjustment of the spine will work to relieve pressure on a bulging and herniated disc, restoring the spine to its proper positioning. Chiropractic techniques can also help to relive pain and muscle cramping associated with spinal injuries.
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression may also be recommended to help relieve pressure from the herniated and bulging disc. Research has shown that Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression can create a negative pressure within the disc causing a “vacuum effect”. This vacuum effect can “suck” the disc material back inside, relieving the pressure from the nerve .
Finally, massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension in the back, allowing the spine to move more freely, reducing pressure on the bulging and herniated disc. Massage also helps to alleviate pain, allowing the patient to relax and regain a sense of comfort.
A combination of chiropractic treatments is often very effective in addressing pain caused by bulging and herniated discs.