What is a Herniated Disc: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, & More
What You'll Learn
If you've ever experienced back pain or discomfort, understanding a herniated disc's nature and treatments is crucial. This page will guide you through the essentials of a herniated disc, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments. Below are key takeaways:
Understanding what a herniated disc is.
Exploring the symptoms associated with a herniated disc.
Discovering what causes a herniated disc.
Treatment options for managing and fixing a herniated disc.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner gel of a disc escapes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This can happen anywhere along the spine but is most common in the lower back or the cervical region (neck). The size and severity of a herniated disc can range from mild to severe. In the worst cases, this condition can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
The symptoms of a herniated disc can vary significantly depending on the disc's location and whether the disc is pressing on a nerve. These may include:
Lower back pain with associated stiffness and difficulty bending.
Pain or numbness that extends to your arms or legs.
Pain that is worse in the morning while getting out of bed or with certain movements.
Back pain when coughing or sneezing.
Unexpected muscle weakness in an arm or leg.
Tingling, aching, or burning sensations in the affected area.
What Causes a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc can be caused by several factors including age-related wear and tear, known as disc degeneration. As you age, your spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity, increasing the risk of tearing even with a minor strain or twist. Other contributing factors include:
Improper lifting techniques.
Body weight, which can place extra stress on the discs of the lower back.
A sudden blow or trauma to the spine.
Repetitive activities that strain the spine.
Poor posture or a sedentary lifestyle that places more pressure on your spine.
How Can You Treat a Herniated Disc?
Effective treatment for a herniated disc can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the specific needs of the individual. Below are some common treatments that can help alleviate pain and facilitate recovery.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression therapy involves stretching the spine using a specialized treatment table, with the goal of relieving pain and promoting an optimal healing environment for bulging, degenerating, or herniated discs. We use a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression machine which is the best form of non-surgical decompression currently available.
Chiropractic Care
Regular and consistent chiropractic care aims to correct spinal misalignments so the body has a better chance of self healing. Chiropractic care is appropriate in most cases and a doctor of chiropractic will determine what the best course of care for your condition should be.
Surgery
In cases where nonsurgical treatments fail to relieve symptoms, surgery might be necessary to remove or repair the herniated disc material that is pressing on the nerve. We consider spinal surgery to be a last-resort option.
Medication
While not a treatment, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and swelling associated with a herniated disc if a medical doctor recommends it.
What is the Best Treatment for Herniated Discs?
The best treatment for a herniated disc largely depends on the severity of symptoms and individual health needs. Non-invasive treatments such as chiropractic care and spinal decompression can be very effective for many patients, offering not only pain relief but improved function and resolution of problem altogether.
How Long Do Herniated Discs Take to Heal?
The healing time for a herniated disc can vary greatly depending on the individual, the severity of the herniation, and the treatment approach taken. For many individuals, symptoms may start to improve within a few weeks to a few months with conservative treatments such as chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and lifestyle modifications. Typically, alleviation from symptoms may begin within a week but could take weeks to months to fully heal.
Some cases on the other hand may take longer, particularly if the herniated disc is severe or if the individual’s daily activities and occupational demands prevent adequate rest and healing. Surgical interventions, when necessary, can also affect recovery timelines, with full recovery often extending several weeks to months post-surgery.
Do Herniated Discs Heal on Their Own?
Herniated discs can often improve over time with conservative management, though the healing process can vary between individuals. In many cases, non-surgical treatments such as chiropractic care, spinal decompression, rest, and activity modification are effective in alleviating symptoms and promoting recovery. The body can gradually reabsorb disc material that has herniated, reducing nerve pressure, and improving symptoms naturally over a period of weeks to months.
While some individuals may experience significant improvement without further intervention, others might require additional treatments if symptoms persist or worsen. It’s important to engage with your chiropractic provider who can help you identify the best treatment option.
Get Treatment for Your Herniated Disc
Dealing with a herniated disc can be challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. At Jeffers Chiropractic in San Diego, CA, we specialize in treatments like spinal decompression and more to help you find relief and get back to your usual activities. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs
Q: What is the most common way to get a herniated disc?
A: The most common cause of a herniated disc is gradual, age-related wear and tear known as disc degeneration. This occurs as the discs lose water content and become less flexible, making them more susceptible to tearing or rupturing even with minor strains or movements.
Q: Can you prevent a herniated disc?
A: While it's not always possible to prevent a herniated disc, certain lifestyle choices can reduce risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly to strengthen core muscles, practicing proper lifting techniques, and avoiding repetitive strenuous activities that may strain the spine.
Q: Can herniated discs cause permanent damage?
A: Most herniated discs do not result in permanent damage, especially with timely treatment. However, if left untreated, severe cases can lead to chronic pain or neurological issues due to prolonged nerve compression. Early intervention and adherence to treatment plans are key to avoiding long-term effects.
Q: Are herniated discs painful?
A: Yes, herniated discs can be painful. The pain is typically caused by the disc pressing on nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as sharp or burning pain, numbness, or stiffness in the affected area. The severity of pain varies depending on the individual and the disc's position.
