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How a Chiropractor Can Benefit From Herniated Disc Treatment in Cincinnati?

Herniated discs happen when a disc cushioning the vertebrae in the spine becomes injured. This degenerative disc disease puts pressure on nearby nerves and the spinal cord, generating pain. Fortunately, non-invasive techniques can reduce the symptoms of this disease. One option is chiropractic treatment. Here’s how a chiropractor can benefit herniated disc treatment in Cincinnati.

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (discs) between the bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine.

A spinal disc has a smooth, jellylike center (nucleus) covered in a more brutal, rubbery exterior (annulus). Sometimes called a slipped or ruptured disc, a herniated disc occurs when some of the nucleus pushes out through a tear in the annulus.

A herniated disc, which can happen in any part of the spine, most frequently occurs in the lower back. Depending on where the herniated disc is, it can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.

Are herniated discs standard?

Every year, up to 2% of people face a situation of herniated disc. Herniated discs cause neck, arm, back, and leg pain (sciatica). They can happen anywhere along the spine, but herniated discs most often occur in the lower back or the neck. It’s rare for a herniated disc to be in the mid-back. But Herniated Disc Treatment is possible with a good chiropractic treatment. 

Causes of a Herniated Disc

The nucleus of an intervertebral disc has an increased water content, which slowly falls as part of the natural aging process. This causes discs to shrink, reducing the space between vertebrae and making discs more likely to herniate. 

Thus, age-related wear and tear is the leading cause of a herniated spinal disc. Other potential risk factors that may increase a person’s likelihood of developing a herniated disc include:

  • Improper lifting
  • Traumatic injury
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Excessive body weight
  • Repetitive physical activities, like pulling or twisting
  • Excessive or frequent driving
  • Lack of exercise
  • Smoking

Symptoms of Herniated Disc

Herniated disc symptoms differ depending on where the pain is in your spine. Symptoms deteriorate with movement and get better with rest.

Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms

The symptoms of a slipped disc range widely depending on the location and size of the herniated disc. Since your spinal column contains a vast network of nerves, a slipped or herniated disc may cause numbness, tingling, pain, or discomfort in other areas of your body, such as your fingers, feet, or legs, for example, a slipped disc in the cervical (upper) spine may result in:

  • Chronic back and upper extremity pain
  • Numbness in the neck or shoulder region
  • Weakness or loss of strength
  • Tingling in the fingers, hand, or arm

Thoracic Herniated Disc Symptoms

The thoracic region is the center of the spine. A herniated disc in this area of the spine may cause symptoms such as:

  • Upper back pain
  • Weakness
  • Myelopathy

Lumbar Herniated Disc Symptoms

The lower area of the spine is the most ordinary site of a herniated disc. Symptoms of a herniated disc in the lumbar region of the spine are usually short-lived or intermittent, though they may be continuous in some cases. Herniated lumbar disc symptoms may include:

  • Pain
  • Sciatica
  • Weakness in the legs
  • Numbness in the legs or feet
  • Decreased reflexes
  • Changes to bowel or bladder function

Chiropractic treatment for herniated disc

Evaluate Your Overall Condition

First, your chiropractor will assess the damage to your herniated disc. Expect them to evaluate the overall health of your spine as opposed to focusing on the painful parts. In addition, the chiropractor will examine your medical history and perform a physical exam. If required, they may also order diagnostic tests.

During your initial consultation, they will also assess your situation with a focus on the subsequent criteria:

  • If your reflexes are normal
  • If you have muscle loss  
  • Decreased muscle strength
  • Numbness or loss of sensation

Counting on their results, they may refer you to a surgeon specializing in spine care. Loss of reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation signal the more aggressive Herniated Disc Treatment in Cincinnati. 

They will also inspect if you are a suitable candidate for chiropractic treatment. Some patients are not appropriate to undergo chiropractic adjustments, such as people who have:

  • Spinal cancer
  • Advanced osteoporosis
  • A bone abnormality along the upper neck
  • High risk of stroke

Once your chiropractor determines that you can undergo spinal manipulation, they will craft your treatment plan. This program is specific to your condition and needs.

How can I avoid getting a herniated disc?

It’s not always possible to prevent a herniated disc. But you can reduce your risk by:

  • Using proper lifting techniques
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Practicing good posture
  • Stretching
  • Avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes
  • Exercising regularly
  • Stopping smoking

Conclusion

Having a herniated disc can make you reluctant to move. But don’t head to bed — too little movement can worsen the pain when you get up again because muscles stiffen. Try to remain active and follow your healthcare provider’s suggestions for stretching. Gentle exercise connected with an over-the-counter pain reliever enables most people to feel better in a few weeks.

If the conditions worsen, it’s highly advisable to consult good healthcare for Herniated Disc Treatment in Cincinnati.