A herniated disc is a common cause of back pain. Not only that, but it can also lead to numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and difficulty moving throughout your day-to-day. Also known as a slipped disc, a herniated disc can seriously impact your overall health and quality of life.
Yet, you can pave your way toward symptom relief. With your Plano chiropractor, you can get to the root cause of your spinal issues—ultimately leaving pain in the past. So, how can a chiropractor help relieve the symptoms of a herniated disc? Let’s dive in!
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Located between each vertebra in the spine, the discs act as cushions that absorb shock and facilitate movement. However, a herniated disc occurs when the soft inner gel of the disc pushes out through a tear in the outer layer, leading to pain, numbness, and, sometimes, severe mobility issues (as you may well be aware!).
So, why does this happen in the first place? Well, sometimes, it can be due to the aging process. As we get older, these discs tend to become less hydrated and weak. In turn, this can lead to a slipped disc. In other instances, it can happen due to injury or trauma, such as a car accident or fall.
How Chiropractic Care Offers Relief For a Slipped Disc
Your chiropractor can diagnose and treat your pain and other symptoms, guiding you on the path toward relief. Below, we take a closer look at how exactly we do this.
Non-Invasive Diagnosis
The first step in treating a herniated disc is a precise diagnosis. Chiropractors utilize a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests to understand the severity and location of the herniation. This non-invasive approach ensures a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs without the immediate leap to surgical options.
Spinal Manipulation Techniques
One of the core treatments in chiropractic care is spinal manipulation or adjustment. This technique involves applying controlled force to the spine to improve alignment, reduce nerve irritability, and enhance mobility. For herniated discs, specific low-force techniques can be used to relieve pressure on the affected disc and surrounding nerves, significantly reducing pain and discomfort.
Lower Back Compression
Lower back pain is a common symptom of a herniated disc, often due to increased compression in the lumbar spine. Your Plano chiropractor can help alleviate this compression through targeted adjustments and decompression therapies. These methods aim to increase the space between vertebrae, reducing pressure on the herniated disc and promoting a healing environment.
Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice
Part of the chiropractic approach to treating herniated discs involves addressing lifestyle and ergonomic factors that may contribute to the condition. Your chiropractor can provide valuable advice on maintaining proper posture, safe lifting techniques, and ergonomic adjustments in your workspace to prevent further injury and facilitate healing
Your Next Steps
If you’re suffering from a herniated disc, the Keystone Chiropractic team is here to help. We understand the impact this condition can have on your daily life, and we’re committed to providing the care you need to return to your daily activities pain-free!
Don’t let a herniated disc hold you back. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable life. Our experienced chiropractors are ready to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you achieve lasting relief.
