At some point, almost everyone experiences back pain. Some of this pain works itself out, but sometimes it is a sign of a herniated spinal disc, and it requires some visits to the chiropractor to feel better. Our staff at Laser Spine & Pain Institute can diagnose and treat a herniated disc
What it Means to Have Herniated Discs
The 23 spinal discs present along the spine and act as shock absorbers for the body. There is a spinal disc located between each vertebra.
There are two main portions, the inner core, also called the nucleus pulpous have loose fibers suspended in a gel. The outer portion, the annulus fibrosus, is made of stronger collagen fibers. This outer core is supposed to keep the inner core where it belongs, but sometimes there's a breakout. Some of the gel from the inner core gets to the outside, and this is a herniated disc. When a disc becomes herniated, it can result in pain within the affected disc, or it may show up as nerve pain if the disc presses against a nearby nerve.
Although technically any disc along the spinal column may become herniated, they are most common in the lumbar spine, and pain can be aggravated even by a slight movement, such as coughing or sneezing, or prolonged sitting. In some cases, a herniated disc hits the sciatic nerve causing pain to radiate through the buttocks and down the legs. Although you may suspect a herniated disc due to your history, the only way to know for sure is with a medical diagnosis. At Renze Chiropractic Clinic, P.C. in Ankeny, IA we have the diagnostic tools available to determine if a herniated disc is indeed the problem, or if your pain is being caused by something else.
Treatment of Herniated Discs with Spinal Decompression
If regular adjustments are not enough to relieve pain then your chiropractor may discuss non-surgical spinal decompression and traction therapies to reestablish proper alignment of the spine and take the pressure off the nerves. At Renze Chiropractic Clinic, we use a specialized form of spinal decompression called SpineMed Decompression. In addition to herniated discs, the treatment also helps with degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy, spinal stenosis, and more.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
This treatment can be used in various situations, and many can continue working while they are having treatments, and in some cases, it is even an option for those who have had surgery, yet still experience symptoms. To learn more contact Laser Spine & Pain Institute today at (281) 810-6102.
