Back pain and neck pain are increasingly common among those of all ages. Whether active or sedentary, most of us will face these pains at some point in life. From an accident to poor ergonomics to physical activity, back and neck injuries can cause significant pain and affect our daily routine.
In many cases, when the back or neck is in a state of discomfort, a disc injury is the culprit. The spine is a complex structure that is composed of vertebrae separated by cushioning discs. Because most of us rely on our spine for support and movement, the discs are often put at risk for injury.
Chiropractic care can discover where the injury occurred and diagnose the kind of injury before providing effective support to heal and restore.
This article will go over:
Kinds of disc injuries
Symptoms of disc injury
Who gets disc injuries
Chiropractic solutions for disc injuries
Benefits of chiropractic care
And more
Suffering from back pain and wondering if you have a disc injury? Read on.
Types of Disc Injuries
Our spines are put under much pressure throughout the day. They provide us with balance, protect our organs, allow us to walk, twist, and bend, and are almost constantly in use. Even while at rest, we can put pressure on targeted areas of the spine.
The spine starts in the neck (the cervical spine) and runs down the back to the buttocks. There are 23 discs in total, and when any of them is compromised, the function of the spine is jeopardized.
The most common kinds of spinal disc injuries include:
Disc herniation or slipped disc- when the soft center of the disc protrudes through the outer casing
Bulging disc- when the disc sags and appears deflated
Degenerative disc disease- when there’s a loss of cushioning, fragmentation, or herniation issues due to aging or wear and tear
Disc strains and sprains- irritation or inflammation of the disc
Disc-related conditions offer different symptoms depending on each unique person and injury.
Common physical symptoms of a disc condition include:
Sharp pain
Burning sensation
Numbness
Tingling
Radiating pain
And others
When we’re in pain, it can take a toll on many other aspects of life, creating other symptoms, including:
Insomnia or difficulty getting and staying asleep
Inability to exercise or participate in physical activity
Inability to focus or perform
Increased mental and emotional stress or anxiety
And others
Who Gets Disc Injuries?
Disc injuries can affect anyone, but lifestyle choices, correct movement patterns, and staying strong and healthy can help keep them at bay.
Reasons you may be more susceptible to getting a disc injury include:
Weight gain, obesity, or pregnancy
Aging
Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as inactivity
Poorly set up workstation
Poor posture
Improper lifting habits
Overuse or repetitive use of specific soft tissues due to sports, exercise, or occupation
A traumatic event, such as a car accident or sporting accident
And more
Chiropractic Solutions to Heal Your Disc Injury
Chiropractic services are designed to stimulate the natural healing of the spine and soft tissues. Chiropractors are experts in finding the source of pain and putting treatment plans in place that manage the discomfort by mending its cause.
Common chiropractic solutions that can cure disc injuries include:
Chiropractic adjustments- a quick, controlled thrust to a targeted area of the spine to help properly reposition and balance the body
Soft tissue therapies- deep tissue solutions that restore and rejuvenate affected soft tissues, promoting circulation, reducing scar tissue, and allowing the body to reestablish proper movement
Dry needling- the insertion of thin needles over targeted areas to allow faster healing of the soft tissues with better blood and oxygen flow
Spinal decompression- using a special table, the patient will experience distraction and relaxation movements, as well as negative pressure to affected discs that helps it reposition safely
And more
For many patients, the treatment program will combine methods that complement each other and include exercises and stretches that promote safe and efficient healing as they strengthen the body.
Benefits of chiropractic for disc injuries include:
Improved comfort
Improved movement patterns and flexibility
Better sleep quality
Less stress
Improved strength
Better joint and soft tissue health
Improved posture
And more
Visit Your Lancaster Chiropractor for Your Disc Injury
With so many benefits and proven, effective results, getting chiropractic care for your disc injury is a great way to find quick and safe pain relief.
Our chiropractic team in Lancaster is ready to help optimize your body. Contact us today; let’s get you fully functioning!