Disc herniations come in many forms; some people don’t realize they have the condition, while others are chronically reminded of it. Whether you’re in severe pain or just starting to notice mild discomfort, finding out the cause is important. 

When caught early enough, healing a disc herniation safely may be as easy as visiting your local chiropractor. Chiropractors understand the importance of a well-functioning, strong spine and use a comprehensive approach to find where the dysfunction is so the correct treatment plan can be created. 

But what exactly is a herniated disc, and how do you know if you have one?

This article discusses:

• What a herniated disc is

• Symptoms of a herniated disc

• Common causes of disc herniations

• Chiropractic methods for effective disc herniation treatment

• And more

Herniated discs are one of the most common reasons for neck and back pain and one of the most common reasons to work with a chiropractor. Read on to learn more about herniated discs and how to get the comfort you need to thrive. 

What is a Herniated Disc?

The spine is made of many vertebrae (bones) stacked on each other, each separated by a disc. The disc has a hard outer shell that protects a gel-like center. When too much pressure is applied to a disc, the inside of it can rupture through the shell, causing disc herniation. 

Common symptoms of disc herniation include:

• Pain on one side of the body 

• Pain occurring in the neck, back, lower back, arm, buttock, hip, leg, or foot

• Radiating pain 

• Muscle weakness and spasms

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations

• Neck and back stiffness 

• Loss of range of motion or flexibility in the back or neck

• Shoulder discomfort

• And more

These symptoms may start slowly and build over time. Other common conditions that can impact your herniated disc include :

• Sciatica

• Arthritis

• Plantar fasciitis 

• Permanent nerve damage

• Degenerative disc disease

• And more

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

With pressure placed on specific areas of the spine, the soft tissues within the area can become inflamed or otherwise affected and put undue stress on the spinal discs, resulting in disc herniation. 

This may happen for many reasons, ranging from a sudden accident to consistent poor movement patterns. Learning the reason for your herniation will help you better support your body and avoid re-injury. 

Habits and events that may cause a herniated disc include:

• Improper lifting techniques

• Poor posture and movement patterns

• Improper workstation setup or poor ergonomics 

• Overuse or repetitive use, often due to occupation, sports, or exercise

• A traumatic event, such as an auto or sports accident

• Whiplash

• A chronic injury or condition 

• Weight and pregnancy

• Aging and regular wear and tear

You should never ignore your body when it’s in pain; it’s the only way it has of telling you that something is wrong. The sooner you meet with your chiropractor, the sooner you can heal, recover, and learn how to improve habits that may be harming you.  

Willowbrook Chiropractic for Disc Herniation Solutions 

For decades, chiropractic services have been relied upon for safe healing and restored function. Our team respects the importance of the spine and provides natural care that works with the body, not against it. 

We never use a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment but determine your unique needs and create the optimal wellness plan centered around you. 

Our chiropractic methods for disc herniation include:

• Hands-on and instrument-based chiropractic adjustments

• Soft tissue therapies, including Active Release Technique (ART)

• Exercise, stretching, posture, and workstation setup advice

• Custom foot orthotics

• And more

We know you want to live pain-free and actively, so we don’t stop at our in-clinic treatments. We offer lifestyle guidance that will contribute to a strong, well-functioning body that can support the demands placed on it. 

If you’re ready to start moving confidently again, book with our Langley chiropractor today and get the holistic care your body deserves.