HERNIATED DISC

Herniated Disc

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The human back is made up of a column of vertebrae enclosed in an interwoven series of tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Within the entire length of the vertebrae are an incalculable number of nerves and neurons that carry signals from all parts of the body to our brain and vice versa. It is no wonder that a blow to, or a twisting of, or over-stretching of the back can damage a section of this complex and delicate part of the body. And it is also easy to understand that automobile accidents in all of their suddenness and violence are the major cause of back injuries. The Mayo Clinic on their website state that automobile accidents account for more than 40% of all spinal injuries. One of the most frequently occurring back injuries as a result of automobile accidents is a herniated disc.

The Mayo Clinic also defines a herniated disc as, ” a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (disks) between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack up to make your spine. A spinal disk is a little like a jelly donut, with a softer center encased within a tougher exterior”. www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/

Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Because the spine is so delicate, it is not hard to imagine a violent accident causing compression, stretching, or twisting or tearing of the spine to such a degree as to cause a disc to rupture. When the fluid leaks out of the disc there is no cushion left between the vertebrae and they can rub together causing pain by irritating the spinal nerves. In addition to pain, other symptoms of a herniated disc are numbness, weakness, or a tingling sensation in the arms or legs.

A thorough examination will include x-rays and an MRI if needed in order to pinpoint the exact location of the herniation. This way, a plan of rehabilitation can be recommended to treat the exact problem.

Non Invasive Treatment Before Surgery On Your Herniated Disc

Before one contemplates surgery, a thorough series of treatments should be performed including if necessary, anti-inflammatory medication, bed resting, and terminating all sports and physical activity for the time being. Although every herniated disc case is different, a period of 4-6 weeks of chiropractic treatment is prudent. Chiropractic treatment is designed to facilitate the healing of the specific herniated disc by improving the spacing of the vertebrae, heat treatments, and massaging and strengthening the muscles, tendons and ligaments around the herniated disc.

An experienced, knowledgeable and compassionate Chiropractor in Arlington Tx will create a holistic approach to treating your herniated disc that might include an analysis of your previous medical history as well as conduct diagnostic tests and a physical examination in an attempt to pinpoint weaknesses the herniated disc may be causing or if there is another injury to the back. We will work with you to educate you as to what physical activities to avoid long-term as well, and instruct you as to the proper way to sit, lay down, bend and lift objects, in order to prevent re-aggregating the herniated disc.