Herniated Disc Treatment
Herniated Disc Treatment Albany, OR
If an individual is suffering from back pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm or leg, they may have a herniated disc. A herniated disc is when part of the substance that makes up the disc’s center gets pushed into the spinal canal. This substance may not lead to any pain, or it can press on a spinal nerve, causing significant discomfort.
Herniated discs can happen in any part of the spine but are more common in the lower back or the neck. Herniated disc treatment is available at Better Pain Solutions in Albany and the surrounding area. Call us at (541) 249-7317 to schedule an appointment.
Diagnosing a Herniated Disc
The chiropractor can use a variety of exams, imaging, and testing to help diagnose a herniated disc. First, a physical exam will get conducted. The chiropractor will check the patient’s entire spine and neck for areas of pain. The patient may also get asked to lie flat and move their legs into various positions to help determine the source of the pain. Additional exams can test the patient’s reflexes, muscle strength, and ability to feel certain sensations.
Additional tests may assist with a diagnosis. An X-ray alone cannot detect a herniated disc. However, it can rule out other causes of back pain. An MRI can be used to confirm the location of the herniated disc and show which nerves are being affected.
Herniated Disc Treatment Q&A
A herniated disc, also called a slipped, ruptured, or bulging disc, is a common cause of neck, back, and leg pain. The injury of the spine involves the round cushions called discs that reside between the vertebrae in the spine. These discs are buffers between the bones of the spine and allow people to move and bend. A herniated disc is when one of these discs tears and leaks.
Most herniated discs are located in the lower back or neck. The symptoms can vary depending on where the location of the disc and whether or not it is pressing on a nerve. It can include pain in the buttocks, thigh, and calf if the disc is in the lower back. It can also include pain in the shoulder and arm if the disc is located in the neck. People can also experience numbness or tingling, weakness in the arms and legs, or no symptoms at all.
A herniated disc happens most often in people between the ages of 30 and 50. Men are also twice as likely to be affected as women. Over the years, discs gradually become less flexible and more susceptible to tearing or rupturing. This gradual wear and tear is called disc degeneration.
It is not always easy to pinpoint the cause of a herniated disc. Often, it is the result of lifting objects incorrectly or twisting while lifting a heavy item. Several factors can increase a person’s likelihood of suffering a herniated disc. They include:
- Employment: People with physically demanding jobs that include repetitive motions, lifting, bending, and twisting are at increased risk.
- Genetics: There can be a predisposition to herniated discs.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: People who do not get enough physical exercise are at increased risk.
- Smoking: Smoking may reduce oxygen supply to the discs.
- Weight: Excess body weight puts additional stress on the lower back.
A. Treatment time will vary from person to person. It often takes several chiropractic visits to experience consistent pain relief. Depending on the severity of the condition, healing time can take several months or longer.
When lifting heavy items, use the proper technique to reduce the chances of suffering a herniated disc. A chiropractor can teach patients stretches and exercises that can strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Regular adjustments can also address any misalignments that may put patients at higher risk for a herniated disc.