Back pain is incredibly common. It is almost guaranteed that we will suffer from it at some point during our lives. The cause of back pain is not always obvious and sometimes it will fade away without intervention. However, some identifiable problems cause back pain. One of the most common is a herniated disc.

What is a herniated disc?

First, to understand what a herniated disc is, it helps to know about the anatomy of the spine. The spine is a series of small bones called vertebra. These bones sit in a column extending up your back. Between each vertebra is a round, flat disc that is filled with a gel that acts as a shock absorber to protect the spine from impacts, while also enabling movements such as bending and twisting.


A herniated disc happens when one of these discs bulges out of its position, or in some cases ruptures entirely. When a disc ruptures, the gel inside oozes out and irritates the nerves around it. As the disc deflates, the cushioning effect of the disc is seriously compromised.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

In some cases, some patients experience no symptoms from a herniated disc and can live with it unaffected for months on end. However, for many people, a herniated disc causes significant pain in the location of the slipped disc, along with other symptoms such as:
 

• Nerve pain radiating down to the buttocks and legs.
   

• Problems with movement, i.e., limbs not responding as the patient feels they should.
   

• Sciatic pain, which is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, radiates to the lower back and the buttocks.
   

• Neurological symptoms in the arms, legs, feet, back, hips, and buttocks, such as tingling, numbness, prickling sensations, and a feeling of hot or cold in localized areas.
   

• Rarely, a patient may also suffer difficulties with bathroom functions of both the bowel and bladder.
   

What can a chiropractor do to treat a herniated disc?

Chiropractors are widely recognized by people as being able to help with back pain. They are experts in the musculoskeletal system and with extensive knowledge and level of skill when it comes to non-invasive techniques to treat problems with the spine, joints, and muscles. Treating a herniated disc is just one area where they can help. To treat a herniated disc they will employ techniques such as:
 

• Pulling and stretching muscles to move them in various directions.
   

• Thrusting with short and sharp movements to help re-align parts of the body and release compressed nerves.
   

• Manipulation of the spine by applying a precise level of force to the joints, muscles, and bones in and around the spine.
  
  
   

What are the benefits of chiropractic care over traditional medicine for a herniated disc?

The benefits of chiropractic treatment are wide-ranging, making it a very popular choice for dealing with herniated disc pain. 
 

• Chiropractic care is non-invasive, safe, and almost fully risk-free, meaning no extended recovery time, allowing a patient to carry on with normal activities.
   

• No drugs or medications are required which means there is no risk of side effects, while still delivering a reduction in pain and increase in mobility.
   

• Reduction of inflammation. Chiropractic care and the adjustments carried out help relieve pressure on the nervous system. This releases a natural anti-inflammatory substance in the body which reduces swelling and any pain associated with it.
   

• Bespoke treatment individual to you. No two patients are the same, and your chiropractor can create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs and make any changes where required.
   

• Long-term benefits. Regular treatment by a chiropractor can help prevent future issues with the spine and joints.
   

If you have any questions our friendly, expert team is here to assist, and if you are suffering from a herniated disc, we are confident that our chiropractic team will be able to help. Please call Waterbury Chiropractic Wellness in Longmont, Colorado at (303) 485-7117 today.