A herniated disc can be one of the most painful and debilitating spinal conditions, affecting your ability to perform even simple daily tasks. Whether you know it as a slipped disc, ruptured disc, or bulging disc, this condition occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in its tougher exterior shell.
So, why do herniated discs happen in the first place? And can your local Spring Hill chiropractor help?
What Causes A Herniated Disc?
While some people might experience a herniated disc due to a sudden injury or trauma, the condition often develops gradually over time. The spine endures considerable stress throughout our lives, and various factors can contribute to disc herniation. Here are the most common causes:
- Age-Related Wear and Tear: The natural aging process causes spinal discs to lose water content and become less flexible, making them more prone to tearing or rupturing with even minor strain.
- Improper Lifting Techniques: Using your back muscles instead of your legs to lift heavy objects puts excessive strain on your spinal discs, particularly in the lower back region.
- Prolonged Sitting: Extended periods of sitting, especially with poor posture, can place unnecessary pressure on your spinal discs and accelerate wear and tear.
- Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on the spinal discs, particularly in the lower back, increasing the risk of herniation.
- Repetitive Movements: Jobs or activities that require constant bending, twisting, or lifting can gradually wear down spinal discs.
- Traumatic Injury: Sudden impacts, such as those from car accidents or sports injuries, can cause immediate disc herniation.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may be genetically more susceptible to disc problems due to inherited characteristics affecting disc strength and resilience.
Can Chiropractic Care Help Relieve Herniated Disc Symptoms?
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing herniated disc symptoms and promoting healing. Through specialized techniques and adjustments, chiropractors can help address both the immediate pain and the underlying causes of your disc herniation.
A comprehensive chiropractic treatment plan typically begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the exact location and severity of the herniation. Your chiropractor will then develop a personalized treatment approach that may include spinal adjustments, decompression therapy, and more to help relieve pressure on the affected disc and promote proper healing.
Chiropractic techniques can help by:
- Reducing pressure on the nerve root
- Restoring proper spine alignment
- Decreasing inflammation around the affected area
- Improving range of motion
- Strengthening supporting muscles
- Preventing further disc damage
- Teaching proper body mechanics
- Addressing postural issues
Many patients experience significant relief through regular chiropractic care, often avoiding the need for more invasive treatments or surgery.
Are you currently experiencing a herniated disc? Or perhaps you suspect that’s what you’re dealing with and need further evaluation. At Premier Chiropractic, your Spring Hill and Colombia chiropractors are here to help you overcome pain and get back to the activities you love. Book your appointment with our compassionate and caring team today!
