Slipped discs – can chiropractic help?

One of the back conditions that patients routinely visit a chiropractor for is a herniated disc.

This type of injury generally responds well to chiropractic treatment so it’s wise to schedule an appointment in the early stages. Herniated disc treatment not only helps reduce pain levels and increase mobility, but can help patients avoid prescription pain medications and any side effects that come along with them.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc refers to a situation where the outer portion of one of your vertebral discs has been torn. This allows the inner portion of the disc, or nucleus, to protrude through the disc wall (think of jam coming out of a donut). Herniated discs are sometimes called ruptured discs or slipped discs. The herniated portion of the disc can end up compressing nerves that surround the disc, which is why it is often associated with a lot of pain.

Common Causes

A herniated disc usually has an original traumatic cause, such as lifting something heavy or twisting. Sometimes herniated discs can become episodic, where they gradually improve but sometimes a little lift or sitting too long can cause them to become painful again. As we get older, our discs lose moisture content and become less flexible, making them prone to tears and ruptures without a whole lot of stress being placed on them. Some factors that may increase your risk of suffering a herniated disc such as having a physically demanding job, improper lifting, and even sitting too long every day.

Common Herniated Disc Symptoms

Herniated discs can cause a lot of pain if they press on a nerve. If your herniated disc is in your lower back, you’ll be more likely to feel pain in your buttocks, hips, thighs, and calves. If the problem is in your cervical vertebrae