What is a Disc Injury?
(also known as bulging disc, herniated disc, slipped disc, or ruptured disc)
A disc injury typically refers to a problem with one of the intervertebral discs in the spine. The spine is composed of vertebrae separated by soft, rubbery discs that act as cushions and shock absorbers between the vertebrae. Each disc has a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like inner substance called the nucleus pulposus.
Disc injuries can occur when there is damage or wear and tear on the discs, leading to various conditions. One common disc injury is a herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc. In a herniated disc, the inner gel-like material protrudes through a tear in the outer layer and can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
What are the Most Common Symptoms of a Disc Injury?
The symptoms of a disc injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms associated with disc injuries include:
- Back Pain: Pain in the affected area of the spine is a common symptom. The pain may be dull, achy, or sharp and can be localized or radiate to other areas of the body.
- Neck Pain: Disc injuries in the cervical (neck) region can cause pain in the neck and may sometimes radiate into the shoulders and arms.
- Nerve Compression Symptoms: If a herniated disc compresses a nerve, it can lead to symptoms such as:
- Radiating Pain: Pain that travels down the arms or legs.
- Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling, often in the extremities.
- Weakness: Weakening of muscles in the affected area.
- Changes in Reflexes: Reflexes may be affected, and certain reflexes may be diminished or exaggerated.
- Muscle Spasms: The muscles surrounding the affected area may go into spasms as a protective mechanism.
- Pain Exacerbated by Movement: Pain may worsen with certain movements or positions, such as bending, lifting, or sitting for prolonged periods.
- Difficulty Walking or Moving: In severe cases, a disc injury can cause difficulty with walking or performing daily activities.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with Disc Injuries?
Treatment for a disc injury can vary depending on the type of disc injury, severity, location, and symptoms associated with the injury. Chiropractic care and conservative care can be helpful for centralization of arm or leg symptoms to pull nerve compression-related symptoms out of the arm or leg back up towards the spine. It can be helpful to increase sensation if there is numbness and tingling. Conservative care can also increase strength in the arm or leg if there is weakness due to the disc injury.
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Additionally, there are different and effective techniques that can be performed to assist with pain relief, to help improve strength and function, and to avoid having major procedures like surgery in many cases. Usually, treatments include specific spinal manipulation techniques, soft tissue work, and rehabilitation exercises geared toward the specific disc injury.