A person has a herniated disc when one of the discs that make up their spine is pushed out of the outer layer called the annulus into the spinal canal due to a rupture or tear in the annulus. The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae and these bones are cushioned by small discs that serve as small pillows with a hard outer layer known as the annulus.
A herniated disc typically represents the early stage of degeneration in the spinal column. There is limited space in the spinal canal, and this creates issues since there is not enough room for a displaced disc and the spinal nerve. The result is back pain, which can become severe.
A herniated disc can develop in any area of the spine, but it is more likely to affect the lumbar spine – the lower back. The neck is another common area herniated discs occur. The pain caused by the condition typically originates from the part of the body.
One of the most common causes of a herniated disc is excessive strain on the spine or an injury. Also, it is natural for the material that makes up the discs in the spine to weaken as a person ages. When these discs degenerate enough, something as simple as a twisting movement or minor strain can cause a disc to rupture. A person’s genetics can also make them more vulnerable to developing herniated discs.
Symptoms that might indicate a herniated disc vary greatly depending on how badly the disc is herniated and its position. For example, a person with a herniated disc that is not pushing on a nerve might not experience any pain at all. Conversely, a disc that is pushing against a nerve will cause pain, weakness, or numbness around the affected area.
The good news is most cases of herniated discs improve on their own. That is the case for about nine out of every ten people that develop the condition. The time it can take for a herniated disc to heal on its own varies from a few days to a few weeks. When that fails, treatment options include physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments medication, and surgical treatments.
Dealing with a herniated disc? Call or visit our Ooltewah clinic to set up an appointment with our therapist.
Request an appointment here: https://spine-chiropractic.com or call Spine Chiropractic at (423) 910-2302 for an appointment in our Ooltewah office.
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