If you’re experiencing back pain, then you might have a serious problem such as a herniated disc. Getting help from a spine specialist can help prevent this from happening in the future. At Freedom Health Centers, our team of experienced physicians can help you find the best treatment option.
WHAT IS A HERNIATED DISC?
One of the most common types of injuries to the back is a herniated disc. While it usually happens in the lower back, it can also occur anywhere in the body.
Take a look at your spinal column. From your neck to your lower back, there are bones called vertebrae, and each one of them is connected to a disc, which helps absorb shock. The inner portion of the disc is made up of a gelatinous outer ring, and the inner part of this disc is often bulged out due to injury. This is referred to as a herniated disc.
Although a ruptured disc might not cause major problems, it can still lead to other issues if it’s not treated properly. For some people, over-the-counter pain medications and exercises can help.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A HERNIATED DISC?
Although the exact symptoms of a ruptured disc can vary, the signs and symptoms of a herniated disc can be similar to those found in other conditions. Some of these symptoms can help identify a potential issue with the disc.
- pain and numbness on one side of the body
- pain through to your arms or legs
- worsening pain with certain movements or during the night
- Increased pain after standing or sitting
- pain while walking, even short distances
- tingling, aching, or burning sensations at the injury site
Although the exact symptoms of a ruptured disc can vary, the signs and symptoms of a herniated disc can be similar to those found in other conditions. If you’re experiencing severe pain, then you need to seek immediate treatment from a medical professional.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A HERNIATED DISC GOES UNTREATED?
If you’re experiencing severe pain, then you need to seek immediate treatment from a medical professional. Left untreated, a ruptured disc can lead to nerve damage and other issues in your spine, which can affect your quality of life.
Some of the more serious complications of leaving a herniated disc untreated include:
- loss of bowel/bladder control, numbness in legs and feet
- difficulty with balance and fine motor skills
- muscle weakness
Although the symptoms of a ruptured disc can be similar to those found in other conditions, they can also be caused by the spinal conditions that require treatment.
One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to treating a ruptured disc is making sure that you contact a healthcare provider right away. Studies have shown that people who start treatment immediately are more likely to have a successful recovery. However, by allowing the pain and issues to continue, many people end up with long-term nerve damage.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR A HERNIATED DISC?
A ruptured disc is usually caused by an injury. However, it can also be caused by other conditions. Some of these risk factors can make you more susceptible to experiencing complications.
- One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to treating a ruptured disc is making sure that you maintain a healthy weight. Doing so will allow you to protect your back from shock.
- Another risk factor that you should consider is your job. If you’re constantly lifting, bending, and twisting while performing repetitive movements, then you’re more prone to experiencing a ruptured disc.
- Other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a ruptured disc include your family history. In some cases, having a family history of spinal problems can make people more prone to experiencing this condition.
- Although it may not be an obvious risk factor, smoking can also increase the likelihood of having a ruptured disc. According to experts, this condition can cause the disc to become unstable and break down more easily.
Although it’s not always possible to prevent a ruptured disc, there are simple steps that can help lower the risk of getting one. Some of these include taking regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.
CAN A CHIROPRACTOR TREAT A HERNIATED DISC?
In severe cases, a ruptured disc can require immediate treatment. However, in less severe cases, it can be treated with patience and a lot of medication. If the symptoms are too severe, you might want to consult a medical professional. A chiropractor can help manage the symptoms and prevent further complications.
Before you start treatment, a chiropractor will want to know more about you and your condition. They might also perform a neurological or an orthopaedical test. These tests are designed to check the level of spinal damage and inflammation.
- Are the nerves sending message properly? Or, are the reflexes still working?
- Has there been any loss of muscle?
- Is there any loss of feeling along the nerves’ path?
During the physical exam, the chiropractor will also check the level of inflammation and damage to the spinal cord and nerves. Even if the pain is only affecting one part of the body, the chiropractor will still want to make sure that the spine is functioning properly.
After collecting all of the necessary information, the chiropractor will then create a treatment plan that will be customized to your needs. This plan will take into account the various factors that you’re experiencing, such as your level of pain and your overall health. Some of the procedures that the chiropractor might perform include spinal manipulation and therapeutic exercises.
If you’re suffering from a ruptured disc, contact Primary Health Center Chiropractic to schedule an evaluation and treatment. The staff members of this facility can help you find the best solution for your condition.