Disc Herniation
Approximately 35-45% of adults will experience pain from a disc herniation at some point in their lifetime. This condition is also more common in men between the ages of 40 to 60.
About Disc Herniations
Your spine consists of 24 individual vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Flexible cushions called “discs” live between each set of vertebrae. A disc is made up of two essential components. The inner disc, called the “nucleus,” is like a ball of jelly about the size of a marble. This jelly is held in place by the outer part of the disc called the “annulus,” which is wrapped around the inner nucleus much like a ribbon wrapping around your finger.
Disc herniations start when the outer fibers of the disc become strained or frayed. When enough fibers become frayed, this can create a weakness, leading to the outer fibers “bulging” or “protruding” like a weak spot on an innertube. Since the spinal cord and nerve roots live directly behind the disc, bulges accompanied by inflammation will likely create low back pain that radiates into the buttock or lower extremities. If the disc bulge or herniation is significant enough to produce a mechanical compression of your nerve, you may also experience loss of your reflexes and weakness. Coughing and sneezing may cause an increase in low back pain. If you feel a cough or sneeze developing, keep your back straight, bend your knees and try to put your hands on a wall or tall counter for support. Try not to bend forward.
Symptoms of Disc Herniations
- Back pain greater than 5/10
- Back stiffness
- Low back pain in the mornings
- Low back pain with coughing or sneezing
Surprisingly, disc bulges and herniations are present without any symptoms in about 1/3 of the adult population. Another one-third of adults will experience low back pain from a lumbar disc at some point in their lifetime. The condition is more common in men. Most lumbar disc problems occur at one of the two lowest discs-L5 or L4. Smokers and people who are generally inactive have a higher risk of lumbar disc problems. Certain occupations may place you at a greater risk, especially if you spend extended periods of time sitting or driving. People who are tall or overweight have an increased risk of disc problems. The condition is uncommon in children and is most common between the ages of 40 and 60.
Researchers have shown that disc herniations and sciatica can be successfully managed with conservative care that our St. George, Utah chiropractors provide.
Our Approach to Disc Herniations
The most critical part of our treatment for low back pain and disc herniations includes reducing the pain and inflammation. We will also increase flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the core to make sure this pain is gone and not coming back. If you are experiencing low back pain in St. George, Utah, see our chiropractors and get back to pain-free movement.
Your Visit With US
We start every visit with a comprehensive movement based assessment to identify any critical contributors to your pain. We then combine muscle release techniques with chiropractic adjustments to help relax your tight muscles and allow your body to move better and feel better. Then, most patients are brought to our rehab area, where we teach you how to extend your session’s benefits at home through stretches and exercises based on your needs and goals.
Visit Crux Sport & Spine today!