Back Pain is very common, learn more about Disc Herniations

Back pain affects millions of people each year. In fact, according to the CDC, 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives with lower back pain being the most common. Of those, approximately 5 – 15% suffer from lumbar disc herniation. If you experience lower back pain and sciatica which is aggravated by walking, sitting, standing, bending, or lifting, you may want to read more about Disc Herniations and what you can do about them in today’s blog:

 

What is a Disc Herniation?

A herniated disc is a condition affecting the spine in which there is a problem with one of the rubbery cushions that sit between the vertebrae that stack to make up your spine. When the center (nucleus) of the disc pushes out through the rubbery exterior, a herniated disc can occur. Although they can occur anywhere along the spine, including the neck, the most often location is the lower back. Symptoms can include pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.

 

What causes Disc Herniations?

When a disc is out of place, it often puts pressure on the nerves which in turn causes pain, numbness, or weakness. Disc Herniations are the result of mechanical issues of the spine and are typically caused by repeated stress and pressure on the spine. Some common causes include:

  • Repeated bending & lifting
  • Excessive sitting (commonly causes disc herniations in the lower spine)
  • Whiplash injuries (usually resulting in disc herniations in the neck)
  • Poor posture
  • Spinal injuries from falls and accidents

 

No Pain? You could still have a Disc herniation

While disc herniations are found on MRIs, they are often secondary findings, meaning they were NOT the reason for the MRI and often not the root cause of pain. A large percentage of back pain is mechanical in nature. Meaning that pain is the result of spinal position and how well the vertebrae move. This is why chiropractic care is an effective treatment for patients with disc herniations. It may, in fact, help patients avoid unnecessary surgery.

 

Treatment for Disc Herniations

Chiropractic adjustments improve joint movement in the spine. Improved spinal movement reduces pressure on the spine and the discs. This has been shown to reduce the symptoms associated with disc herniations.

 

SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Therapy Can Also Help

SoftWave TRT creates a healing response without drugs or rupturing the cell membranes. A healing response begins with a down-regulation of inflammation.

We would love to have the opportunity to help you find relief from your back pain! Give us a call at 845-344-0444 to set up an appointment so that we can discuss the best treatment method for your needs.