What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc occurs when all or part of a disc in the spine is forced through a weakened part of the disc. This can put pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord. An intervertebral disc contains a soft, gelatinous substance in the center (nucleus) contained in a tougher, elastic outer layer (annulus). A herniated disc occurs when part of the nucleus pushes through a crack in the annulus.
Symptoms of a herniated disc
- Pain on one side of the body: Pain may radiate from the affected area to other parts of the body.
- Sharp pain: In the lumbar region, pain can radiate to the leg, hip, or buttocks.
- Numbness and tingling: These sensations may be felt in specific areas of the body, depending on the location of the hernia.
- Muscle weakness: There may be weakness in the muscles innervated by the affected nerves.
- Neck and upper extremity pain: If the hernia is in the cervical region, pain may radiate to the shoulder, arm, and fingers.
- Difficulty moving: Movements can be painful, especially after sitting or standing for long periods.
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Types of herniated disc
- Disc protrusion: Deformation of the annulus fibrosus due to the impact of the nucleus pulposus against it. At this stage, the annulus fibrosus has not yet ruptured.
- Prolapse: Rupture of the nucleus pulposus through the annulus fibrosus but without breaking through the anterior or posterior longitudinal ligament.
- Extrusion: The nucleus pulposus completely passes through the annulus fibrosus and the longitudinal ligament, usually the posterior one.
- Sequestration: Rupture of the extruded segment, with displacement of the free fragment into the spinal canal.
Discover the benefits of chiropractic care for herniated disc
Pain relief
Spinal manipulation can reduce pressure on the affected nerves, alleviating pain and improving function.
Improved mobility
Chiropractic techniques can help restore the range of motion of the spine and limbs.
Reduction of inflammation
Chiropractic therapies can help decrease inflammation in the affected area.
Prevention of future injuries
Chiropractors can teach posture and movement techniques to prevent recurring injuries.
Improved quality of life
By reducing pain and improving mobility, chiropractic care can help patients resume their daily activities and enhance their overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions about herniated disc
What causes a herniated disc?
A herniated disc is generally caused by the natural wear and aging of the discs. This process is known as disc degeneration. It can also be triggered by injuries or sudden strains, such as lifting heavy objects incorrectly.
How long does it take to recover from a herniated disc?
The recovery time varies depending on the severity of the hernia and the treatment. Many people improve within weeks to months with conservative treatment. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Is surgery necessary to treat a herniated disc?
Surgery is only necessary in severe cases where conservative treatment has not been successful or if there are severe symptoms such as loss of bladder or bowel control, significant muscle weakness, or severe pain that does not improve with other treatments.
What treatments are available?
Treatments include medications, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and activity modification. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed?
It is diagnosed through a physical examination, review of medical history, and diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), electromyography (EMG), and myelography.
What can I do to prevent a herniated disc?
To help prevent a herniated disc, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, maintain good posture, avoid lifting heavy objects incorrectly, and maintain a healthy weight.
Do you suffer from a herniated disc?
Make an appointment so our chiropractors can help you.
Our patients have improved thanks to our chiropractic adjustments.
