A herniated disc is often a painful condition that can impact every aspect of your life. If you have a herniated disc, you are probably anxious to find some sort of relief. Some people will turn to conventional medicine and end up having to undergo surgery to treat the herniation. What those people might not realize is that there is often hope for treating herniated discs through chiropractic care.
Defining disc herniation
Each vertebra in your spine, except for the two closest to the base of the skull, has a cushion that is called a disc. This disc is meant to help with the movement of the spine by providing a flexible cushion that absorbs shock and distributes it.
When these discs are not in the proper position, the spine can’t move properly. There are a few ways that the discs can end up in an improper position. One of these occurs when weakened areas are present in the outer layer of the disc. This can lead to the inner material of the disc being pushed into the weakened area, which causes the disc to bulge out, thus reducing the cushioning between the spinal vertebrae.
Role of chiropractic care
When the spine is misaligned, it puts undue pressure on the discs. This can lead to an increased risk of the discs becoming herniated. When the spine is manipulated, or adjusted as we say, and returned to its proper position, the pressure on the disc is once again distributed more evenly. This manipulation can also help to get the disc back into the space where it needs to be.
A chiropractor in charge of treating a patient with a herniated disc or other spinal issues will create an individualized plan that addresses the problems and the ways they impact the patient. One key factor is that the location of the herniation has a significant impact on how it can affect the patient. For example, a herniated disc in the thoracic region of the spine can cause digestive upset. Correcting the spine in this area can reduce the gas, bloating and heartburn associated with this condition.
If you have severe back pain or have been told you have a herniated disc, you should seek out a chiropractic opinion as soon as possible. Many spinal cord issues will continue to worsen until you start receiving regular treatments to address them.