Herniated Disc and Bulging Disc
Treatment in Walnut Creek
Your spine has discs between vertebrae that act as cushions and allow movement. Each disc has a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a gel-like inner core (nucleus pulposus). Disc injuries often occur due to excessive force on the spine, typically from muscle imbalances or improper movement.
Types of Disc Injuries
Disc injuries can vary in severity and impact, including the following:
Degenerative Disc Disease: Over time, discs can dehydrate and lose their cushioning ability, similar to a car tire wearing out. This condition leads to stiffness, reduced flexibility, and a higher susceptibility to injury.
Disc Bulge: This is the mildest form of disc injury, where the nucleus pushes against the annular fibers but doesn’t break through. It can cause nerve compression and pain.
Disc Herniation: Often referred to as a “slipped disc,” this occurs when the nucleus pulposus breaks through the annular fibers, causing significant pain and potential nerve damage.
Disc Extrusion: The most severe type, where a large portion of the nucleus pulposus extrudes beyond the disc, disc extrusion often leads to intense nerve compression and pain.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Disc injuries can present a variety of symptoms, depending on the location and severity. Common signs include:
- Back Pain and Leg Pain: Pain that radiates down the leg, often exacerbated by activities like bending forward, coughing, or prolonged sitting and standing.
- Numbness and Tingling: Sensations in the buttocks, legs, or feet.
- Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.
Diagnosing a disc issue typically involves imaging tests like MRI to determine the size and location of the injury. It’s crucial to correlate clinical symptoms with imaging findings, as not all disc bulges cause pain.
Treatment and Management
Movement is essential for disc health. Spinal decompression therapy is a highly effective treatment that promotes movement, increases disc space and reduces nerve pressure. Exercises like Cat-Cow and flexion-based movements can also help maintain disc health and alleviate pain.
Get Relief and Reclaim Your Life
If you’re experiencing back pain, leg pain, or any symptoms associated with disc issues, don’t wait for them to worsen. Early intervention can significantly improve your quality of life. Contact Dudum Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation.
