Treatments for Herniated Discs
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is one of the most common spinal issues affecting millions of people each year. This condition occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer, irritating nearby nerves and causing a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location of the disc and the severity of the herniation. The most commonly affected areas are the lower back (lumbar spine) and the neck (cervical spine). Here are the most frequently reported symptoms:
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Localized Pain: Pain near the herniated disc is often the first sign. In the lower back, this might feel like a deep ache or sharp pain. In the neck, the pain may radiate to the shoulders and arms.
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Radiating Pain (Sciatica): A herniated disc in the lumbar spine can press on the sciatic nerve, leading to shooting pain down one or both legs. This is often referred to as sciatica.
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Numbness or Tingling: Pressure on nearby nerves can cause numbness or a “pins and needles” sensation in the limbs, fingers, or toes.
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Muscle Weakness: Over time, the nerve compression may affect the strength of the muscles associated with that nerve, making it difficult to lift or hold objects or even walk properly.
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Worsening Pain with Movement: Activities like bending, lifting, or twisting can intensify the discomfort.
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Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: While rare, this is a serious symptom that may indicate cauda equina syndrome, requiring emergency care.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, especially if they’re persistent or worsening, it’s important to seek professional evaluation and care. Ignoring a herniated disc can lead to chronic pain and long-term nerve damage.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Herniated Discs
At Elevation Health Center, we use gentle, targeted chiropractic techniques to reduce the pressure on affected nerves and help the spine return to proper alignment. Here’s how chiropractic care can help:
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Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine, relieving pressure on the discs and surrounding nerves. Our approach is customized to each patient, using precise techniques that avoid worsening the herniation and instead encourage the disc material to return to its natural position.
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Flexion-Distraction Therapy: This non-invasive technique gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the disc that can pull herniated material back into place. It’s especially effective for lumbar disc herniations and helps reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
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Postural and Ergonomic Counseling: Poor posture and improper body mechanics can contribute to disc issues. We coach our patients on how to sit, stand, lift, and move in ways that support spinal health and prevent further injury.
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Lifestyle and Movement Guidance: Regular movement, stretches, and exercises are key to healing. We create customized home care routines to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and reduce the chance of future disc issues.
Complimentary Treatments at Elevation Health Center
Chiropractic care works best when paired with supportive therapies. At Elevation Health Center, we offer a variety of complimentary treatments that work together to reduce pain and inflammation while speeding up recovery:
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Cold Laser Therapy: This cutting-edge treatment uses low-level light to stimulate healing at the cellular level, reduce inflammation, and ease pain. It’s especially useful in treating nerve-related discomfort caused by herniated discs.
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Spinal Decompression Therapy: This non-surgical technique uses a specialized table to gently stretch the spine, relieving nerve pressure and improving disc hydration and health. Many patients find significant relief from herniation symptoms after a series of decompression sessions.
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Neuropathy Treatment: If nerve damage has occurred due to long-term compression from a herniated disc, our advanced neuropathy treatment program helps restore nerve function and reduce symptoms like burning, tingling, and numbness.
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Weight Loss Support: Excess weight can put added pressure on the spine, worsening herniated disc symptoms. Our doctor-supervised weight loss program helps patients reach a healthier weight, relieving spinal stress and improving overall mobility and wellness.
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Cranial Facial Release (CFR): Although more commonly used for head trauma, sinus issues, and neurological symptoms, CFR can be a helpful adjunct in cases where upper cervical and cranial alignment may be contributing to spinal tension and pain.
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Functional Movement and Rehabilitation: We provide tailored rehab plans designed to retrain your body, improve balance and coordination, and strengthen core and spinal stabilizers. This helps prevent future injuries and supports long-term recovery.
The Elevation Health Center Difference
Our goal at Elevation Health Center is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or debilitating pain due to a herniated disc, our team will work with you to create a comprehensive care plan designed for long-term healing.
We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and tools for sustainable health. With a combination of chiropractic care, state-of-the-art technologies, and supportive wellness services, our approach is safe, effective, and drug-free.
If you’re dealing with symptoms of a herniated disc, don’t wait for things to get worse. Contact Elevation Health Center in Meridian, ID, to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.
