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Approximately 19% of people over the age of 40 suffer from a herniated disc, making it one of the most common back-related conditions. Herniated discs, also known as slipped discs, can result in pain that makes it difficult to perform work-related tasks or to participate in the activities you love. Discover how chiropractic treatment for slipped or herniated discs can relieve the symptoms of this condition and restore mobility to your spine.
Are you ready to end your back pain? Contact Peak Chiropractic to make an appointment today!
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Your spine is comprised of 33 small bones called vertebrae. Between each of the vertebrae is a disc that provides shock absorbency and flexibility so the spine can move. When any of these discs become cracked or dislodged due to wear or trauma, it’s known as a slipped or herniated disc. This can cause significant pain and could impact your spine mobility. Chiropractic care offers options that are highly effective in treating this condition, whether it occurs in the neck or the lower spine.
Spinal Decompression Can Improve Your Back and Neck Pain
Chiropractic care focuses primarily on the spine, so it’s perfectly suited for treating problems concerning the back and neck. Specifically, spinal decompression therapy is the ideal solution for relieving pain associated with herniated discs.
Spinal decompression therapy involves a chiropractor gently stretching out your spine in order to realign it. This is especially effective in the upper spine region, which can better target your herniated disc. After this treatment, tension will be relieved from the affected area, you’ll experience improved mobility, and your pain should diminish. Spinal decompression therapy may even be a permanent solution to your back and/or neck symptoms!
What Typically Causes a Herniated Disc?
A slipped, bulging, or herniated disc can occur for many reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of this condition:
- Obesity. Obesity is an epidemic in America, and it’s a common trait in a wide variety of back problems. Since extra stress on the back can force the disc material out, hence causing the herniated disc condition, being overweight puts you at a much greater risk.
- Sudden Twisting Motion. For some patients, their herniated disc happens suddenly, leading to lasting pain and discomfort. Perhaps a patient is moving boxes and twists the wrong way, or maybe they simply move in an odd direction without thinking. These kinds of awkward movements can push the disc out of place which can cause a herniated disc.
- Injury and Trauma. Sports injuries, car accidents, and other types of trauma are common causes of herniated discs and other spine conditions. Chiropractic care can treat the inflammation that’s associated with a wide variety of back injuries in addition to helping you regain mobility.
- Aging. The discs that provide cushion for the vertebrae are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Aging is a common cause of herniated discs and also makes patients more vulnerable to back injuries in general.
- Improper Lifting Technique. Anyone who has lifted something heavy has probably heard the phrase, “Lift with your legs, not your back!” A herniated disc may be one of the consequences for not following this advice. Heavy objects can put tremendous strain on your discs and cause the material to slip out of position.
- Labor-Intensive Jobs or Training. Jobs, sports, or hobbies that require actions that repeatedly put stress on the spine can lead to a herniated disc. One of the main reasons patients end up seeking treatment is because the injury reduces their ability to do their job or exercise without discomfort.
Statistics Related to Herniated Discs
A study published in the US National Library of Medicine shows compelling facts about those who are most affected by herniated discs and how the condition is best treated:
- The highest prevalence of herniated discs is found in men ages 30-50.
- No evidence was found showing that antidepressants or muscle relaxers are effective at treating herniated discs.
- Spinal manipulation was found to be effective compared to medications.
Make an Appointment
At Peak Chiropractic in Celebration, FL, we provide a wide range of services that can reduce inflammation and put an end to your back pain. Before taking medications that may be addictive or getting involved in expensive surgeries, consider chiropractic therapy.
