A herniated disc refers to a problem with one of the cartilage-like cushions (disks) located between two adjacent vertebrae. A spinal disc has a soft, jellylike center made of water and protein called the nucleus, which is encased in a tougher, rubbery exterior made of fibro-cartilage called the annulus.
In the case of herniation, the inner nucleus pushes out through a tear in the annulus and eventually can enter the spinalcanal, placing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Although disc herniation can occur in anypart of the spine, it most commonly develops in the lumbar spine (low back),followed by the cervical spine.
What symptoms coulda herniated disc cause?
Depending on where in your spine you have a herniated disc, symptomswill affect different parts of your body. A herniated disc in the lumbar spine can cause low back pain that can alsoextend towards your buttocks, thigh and calf, as well as reach parts of yourfoot.If you have a herniated disc in your neck, pain in this area can alsoextend toward your shoulder, arm, and hand.
In either case, the pain might shoot into your arm or leg when you cough, sneeze, or move into certain positions. It is often described as sharp or burning. Additionally, a herniated disc can cause numbness or tingling and, in certain cases, weakness.
If you develop weakness or notice muscle atrophy (size of muscles decreases), this symptom requires prompt diagnosis since it can indicate a severe compression, which may warrant surgical intervention in order to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Does a herniated disc always cause pain?
Not necessarily! You can have a herniated disk without symptoms and might not even know it's there. Research shows that up to 63 % of people who have never had an episode of low back pain will have a herniated disc (protrusion) in their MRI. That being said, if you do have a painful disc, the good news is that in the majority of cases it will heal naturally over time.
Actually, in over 90% of cases, disc herniation can be resolved success fully with conservative treatment and does not require surgery.
What causes a herniated disc to develop?
Well, contrary to popular belief, very few back injuries result from a single event, including a herniated disc. That's because discs are very resilient structures and are not easily damaged when healthy.
That's why disc herniation is considered to be an accumulative process involving both long-standing degeneration and abnormal repetitive stress (sitting, lifting, bending over, etc.). This helps explain why a herniated disc many years (10+) years to develop.
Two key factors lead to disc herniation:
Degeneration: As discs degenerate, they dehydrate, weakening the fibres and causing them to tear much more readily. This is probably one of the most important cofactors in the development of a herniated disc since it's in this debilitated state that herniation most commonly occurs.
Repetitive stress: Sitting, lifting, or bending over can progressively weaken the supportive elements ofthe spine. These micro-traumas continuously stress your spine every day, whichis why it´s important to learn how to take proper care of yourself.
That being said, although traumatic events can cause disc damage, understand that daily activities are equally harmful. In most cases, there are many factors at play, and a single event is usually the final blow to a cumulative process rather than the sole culprit of the injury.
So, how do you deal with this type of problem?
Well, rather than treat symptoms, which are just pain signals, resolving the underlying issue to heal naturally is key. In the case of a herniated pain our plan may include;
Manipulative Therapy: This treatment can restore proper function to specific segments of the spine, allowing the structure to heal more efficiently.
Postural Education: By eliminating painful stimuli, such as those from faulty postural habits, this can reduce physical strain that is contributing to the problem.
IASTM—Soft tissue therapy: This technique promotes faster tissue regeneration, breaks down scar tissue, and reduces restrictions by engaging the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Biomechanical Rehabilitation: Practice specific routines to stabilize your spine, restore proper function and improve posture to impact the spine in a positive manner.
Kinesiotape Tape: This is used to support and relieve pain in muscles, joints, and ligaments. It lifts the skin to create a small space between the muscle and dermis, enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation.
At ChiroVitality, we use a multifaceted approach to healing. Our tailored treatment plans focus on your individual needs to ensure you receive the care you require to find lasting relief. Don’t let neck pain hold you back any longer.
Take the first step and book your initial assessment. If you’re unsure, contact us today to schedule a FREE 10-minute Virtual consultation with Dr. Nick so he can answer any questions you may have. Let’s work together to get you back to feeling your best!
