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 consultation 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.