Bulging or Herniated Disc

What is a Herniated or Bulging Disc?

A herniated disc is a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (discs) that sit between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine. A spinal disc has a soft, jellylike center (nucleus) encased in a tougher, rubbery exterior (annulus). When too much pressure is placed on the disc, it bulges or herniates. Sometimes called a slipped disc or a ruptured disc, a herniated disc occurs when some of the nuclei push out through a tear in the annulus.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A HERNIATED DISC?  

Signs and symptoms depend on where the disc is situated and whether the disc is pressing on a nerve. They usually end up affecting one side of the body. Common symptoms of a herniated disc include Electric, Stabbing, Shooting or Burning Pain Tingling or Numbness Muscle Weakness Arm or Leg Pain.

WHAT CAUSES THESE SYMPTOMS? 
Disk herniation is most often the result of gradual, aging-related wear and tear called disc degeneration. As you age, your discs become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist. When the herniated disc ruptures and pushes out, the nerves may become pinched. 

RISK FACTORS

There are a few factors that can increase your risk of a herniated disc:

• Smoking; Smoking is known to lessen the oxygen supply to the disc, meaning the disc can break more easily.  
• Weight; Excess body weight over-stresses the discs in your lower back.
• Genetics; Some people inherit a predisposition to developing a herniated disc.
• Occupation; Repetitive pulling, lifting, pushing, bending sideways and twisting also can increase your risk of a herniated disc. In summary, people with physically demanding jobs involving some kind of heavy/repetitive activities have a greater risk of developing back problems.

Get A Free Consultation

Schedule a appointment with our staff to correctly diagnose and formulate a proper treatment protocol that heals the disc and gets you back on your feet. One of the most effective treatments is Spinal Decompression. This, combined with a Rehabilitation program, deep laser therapy, and chiropractic adjustments could effectively control the pain and begin the healing process for the disc.