You have heard of a herniated disc – you might have even been diagnosed with one – but do you understand what it means? To help guide you through one of the top conditions seen by chiropractors, our team at Lally Chiropractic Clinic in Yakima would like to answer your top questions below.
What is a herniated disc?
Your spine is made up of several vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Between each vertebra is a disc or cushion that prevents the bones from rubbing against one another. A herniated disc is a condition in which the disc spills out from between the bones, often compressing nerves and muscles.
What causes this condition?
Any abnormal or forceful movement can cause a herniation. For instance, a car accident or a fall can push the gel-like cushion out. Repetitive movement, such as repetitive lifting at work, can also lead to disc herniation.
People of all ages and genders can experience a herniated disc, but some people are at a higher risk than others. Aging naturally wears down the discs, so the older a person is, the more likely they will have a herniated disc. Additionally, if you smoke, are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, or work in a manual labor position, a herniation could be just around the corner.
What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?
Specific symptoms and the severity of each can vary. However, most people are aware of the condition due to a few common signs. These include pain and tenderness in the neck and back and muscle spasms around the impacted area. If the disc compresses a nerve, you might also experience sciatica symptoms, which include tingling, numbness, and burning from the lower back to the feet.
What treatment options are available?
Some of the most common and effective chiropractic treatment options for herniated discs include spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, posture correction, cold laser therapy, electrical stimulation, and corrective exercises. A care plan that combines some or all of these treatments works to reduce pain, pull the herniated disc back into place, release compressed nerves, and strengthen weakened and damaged areas. Your chiropractor at Lally Chiropractic Clinic will determine the best course of treatment for your condition after performing a thorough examination.
Find Relief from Herniated Disc Pain in Yakima, WA
Don’t let the pain of a herniated disc slow you down. Put a stop to it by scheduling an appointment with one of our chiropractors at Lally Chiropractic Clinic. Call our team today at (509) 248-0301 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
