Can Chiropractors Help With Disc Herniations?

What Can Cause A Herniated Disc?

• Age-related, wear and tear on the spine known as disc degeneration.
• Micro-trauma and repetitive stress to spinal joints.
• Sudden trauma
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity and smoking

Difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc

A bulging disc involves the inside of the disc protruding whilst staying inside the borders before the outer layer. A herniated disc protrudes past the outer layer causing compression. Whilst most people suffering with these injuries have symptoms they may vary or even be absent depending on the degree of protrusion.

Symptoms Of A Herniated Disc

Neck disc herniations:

• Sharp / shooting pain into the upper back, shoulder blades, arms, hands, and fingers
• Numbness or tingling sensation into the upper back, shoulder blades, arms, hands, and fingers
• Muscle weakness
• Constant neck pain and discomfort

Lower back disc herniations:

• Sharp / shooting pain into the lower back, buttock, or legs
• Numbness or tingling sensation into the lower back, buttock, or legs
• Muscles weakness
• Constant lower back pain and discomfort
• Loss of bowel and bladder control.

Things To Avoid With Disc Herniations

• Running
• Jumping
• Heavy Lifting
• Bending, Twisting or Turning

How can a Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractic care may help decrease the pain from discs that are herniated and may help to reduce the possibility of them happening in the first place. Some ways in which Chiropractors can help assist those suffering from disc injuries include:

• Soft Tissue Therapy
• Mobilisation
• Adjustment Techniques
• Heat Therapy
• Posture Corrective Techniques
• Myofascial Release
• Assisted PNF and PIR Stretching
• Dry Needling
• Cupping
• Prescription of Exercises and Stretches

If you are someone that is suffering from a disc herniation or bulging disc and doesn’t know where to start our team of practitioners are always happy to help you out!