Bulging and herniated discs are common back injuries. Both conditions are painful, and can take a long time to heal if they are not properly treated by chiropractor. Dr. Gary Martin, our Irvine chiropractor, has decades of experience helping patients heal from disc injuries.
In order to understand how disc injuries occur, it's important to first understand how the spinal discs work. In between each vertebra in the
back is a small, soft cushion, known as a disc. This disc is filled with a soft jelly-like substance surrounded by a tough exterior. As movement occurs, the discs cushion the vertebrae, stopping them from rubbing together and causing pain.
If you're experiencing back pain, you may be wondering if you've injured a disc. Unfortunately, it's hard to tell for sure. The only way to tell if you're dealing with a bulging or herniated disc is an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). Some people experience degeneration of the discs as a common part of the aging process. Over time, the tough exterior of the disc can break down. When the soft jelly material on the inside of the disc pushes on the tough exterior, it can cause the outer perimeter of the disc to bulge. If the jelly actually escapes the tough exterior, it is known as a herniated disc.
Disc Injury Symptoms
Causes of Disc Injury
While both types of disc injuries can be painful, a herniated disc typically causes more serious symptoms. Symptoms of disc injury include pain near the disc that may radiate to other parts of the body. You may also experience muscle soreness and tension as your body attempts to make up for the injury by moving in unusual ways.
Chiropractic Treatment for Disc Herniation
When you come to our Irvine office for your first appointment with our chiropractor, Dr. Martin, you'll discuss your symptoms and potential causes of your injury. Our chiropractor will examine your spine to look for signs of a disc problem. From there, you'll work together to develop a treatment plan. Most people find success with a combination of different treatments, including spinal adjustments, disc decompression therapy, laser therapy, stretches and corrective exercises, and lifestyle changes. Chiropractic treatment works with your body's innate ability to heal itself. We believe in treating the root cause of your problem, rather than just treating symptoms.
Call Our Irvine Chiropractor
If you think you may have a herniated or bulging disc, it's important that you get treatment for your back pain as soon as possible. Call Dr. Gary Martin, our Irvine chiropractor, at (949) 559-7999, to schedule your first appointment today.
