Three Things to Know About Herniated Discs

Herniated discs are a common condition in which the discs in the spine become stretched, misaligned, or damaged, and causes the disc to extend or bulge outward. They are usually – but not always – painful, and often occur in the lower back and neck.

So, what causes a herniated disc? What are the symptoms like? How are they treated? Here are three things to know.

Causes of a herniated disc

Several factors can contribute to herniated discs. They can be caused by sudden or improper movements with your neck or back, or lifting heavy objects to the point of over-exertion, which strains the back. Injuries are another cause, and so is aging. As we get older, disc problems may arise as they lose water content and flexibility.

General symptoms

Most herniated discs are quite painful, but you can have the condition without any pain at all. If you have a disc issue in your neck, you may feel pain in your arms and shoulders. If you have a herniated disc in the lower back, the pain may radiate down your leg to your calf and foot. Many times, the pain is accompanied by tingling or numbness in the general area.

Treating a herniated disc

Chiropractic care and physical therapy can be used to treat the discomfort of herniated discs by aligning your spine and increasing your range of motion. Through chiropractic adjustments, your body will be positioned to move correctly. This will reduce the pressure on your nerves and other parts of your spine, including any herniated discs. Other treatments such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy are effective against disc injuries and may be administered by your chiropractor as well.

Though painful, herniated discs are common and there are a number of ways to alleviate them. For more information or to ask any questions, visit our website, or call us at 815-380-2180.

Kirkland Family Chiropractic Center

229 First Avenue Suite 2

Rock Falls, IL 61071