Let us help with your herniated disc

What is a herniated disc?

A cushion-like layer of cartilage sits between each of the 33 vertebrae that stack on top of each other to form your spine. This layer is made up of a donut-shaped, rubbery outer area with a soft, squishy substance filling it. When we are young, the cushion is made up of mostly soft area that we lose as we grow older, flattening the disc and making it more prone to injury. When the soft substance gets pushed out of its shell and into the harder substance around it, a herniated or ruptured disc occurs.

What puts me at risk for a herniated disc?

Age is one of the most common causes of herniated discs. Years of the disc degrading naturally and being worn down causes it to become herniated, meaning that this condition happens most commonly in people 30-50 years old. Lacking physical activity throughout your life means that the muscles around the disc degrade, making you more susceptible to discs becoming herniated. Obesity also plays a large role in instances of herniated discs, since the extra weight puts more pressure on the discs.

How can chiropractic care help a herniated disc?

Chiropractors, who specialize in the musculoskeletal system, can diagnose and treat your back pain. Even if you only have pain in one area of your back or neck, your chiropractor will evaluate the entire musculoskeletal system. Spinal manipulation, or adjustments, may be used to align the spine to put less pressure on the disc in question. Therapeutic exercises and manual therapy may be used to further relieve pain. Your doctor will work with you to come up with a customized treatment plan according to your symptoms and their examination.

If you are suffering from back pain, Chiropractic Care Center in Union, KY can help. Call (859) 647-7730 to schedule your appointment today!