DISC HERNIATIONS
WHAT ARE HERNIATIONS?
Currently, statistics show that disc herniations occur in 5-20 people per 1000 every year. Disc herniations occur when a disc’s structural support fails and puts pressure on either the spinal cord or nerve roots exiting the spine. Discs play an important roles in supporting the spine and absorbs gravity’s daily forces on our body. Throughout life, discs withstand daily “wear and tear”, which can ultimately lead to degenerative disc disease (DDD). Consistent chiropractic care or wellness care will keep the spine and it's many joints properly aligned, with intention to maintain efficient disc/spine health throughout the course of treatment.
WHAT CAUSES HERNIATED DISCS?
As everyone ages, discs begin to dehydrate and thin, along with the ability to withstand daily pressures. In some cases, DDD can lead to joint disease as well as disc herniations within the spine. Disc herniations are most common among 30-50-year old’s and most common among men (2:1 ratio). Many people cite a certain lifting or twisting motion as the mechanism of their injury, followed by radiating symptoms (burning, tingling, numbness or general weakness) in either their arms or legs. It is noted that some disc herniations may cause little to no symptoms. However, taking precautions like proper lifting form, maintaining muscle tone and having proper spinal alignment can all reduce the risk for a disc herniation.
HERNIATED DISC TREATMENT WITHOUT SURGERY
Treatment of disc herniations varies depending on severity, location and of course the patient. Cervical and lumbar herniations are treated with similar techniques within chiropractic, however, some factors do change based upon the target treatment area. Our doctors use both spinal decompression and Mckenzie protocol to address herniations. Thanks to creator of this technique, strong evidence suggest that using this protocol allows for pain relief, tissue healing and return of function without the need for surgical intervention. These factors depend on the severity and chronicity between every patient. While our techniques may vary, it is important to understand that all our methods we use are safe and non-invasive. Frequency of visits and the duration of care plans vary case by case. (Photo of our spinal decompression table)
