01/05/2023
Disc Bulges and herniations
One question I get asked frequently is if I can treat low back disc bulges or herniations
And the answer is yes! Absolutely
Now what is a disc bulge or disc herniation?
When we talk about a disc bulge we are referring to the intervertebral discs of the spine. The discs act as shock absorbers between your vertebrae
Over time, wear and tear or traumatic events may cause a disc to bulge or herniate
A disc bulge is when the disc sags or bulges out too far backwards towards the spinal cord and nerve roots.
A disc herniation occurs when the outer layer of the disc has ripped or torn allowing further protrusion and a leak of disc fluid into the spinal canal
Both conditions can cause physical compression or inflammatory irritation of the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves
When there is irritation of the spinal nerves you may experience symptoms like low back pain, pain radiating down into the glutes, legs, and feet. You may also feel numbness, tingling, lack of muscle function or fatigue, and in severe cases, muscle atrophy.
At times the pain and symptoms may be severe but these conditions are treatable with conservative care
I’ve had great success treating patients with disc bulges and herniations with a combination of chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies, physical therapy exercises, and electrical stimulation
These treatments aim to help reduce their pain and symptoms, keep them off prescription drugs, and get back to their normal life
Don’t let low back pain dictate you life
Make an appointment so you can get back to living life