Most people have at least heard about spinal discs, but what exactly are the discs and what do they do? These discs are a jelly-like substance that act as shock absorbers for the spine. Due to the stress they are constantly under, discs can be damaged, which then can cause pain and discomfort. In this post, we will cover the function of intervertebral discs and how chiropractic care can help if they become damaged.
What is the function of intervertebral discs?
The discs sit between each vertebra of the spine. There are a total of 23 discs in the human body. They are a jelly-like substance that are made up of two components. The middle component, the nucleus pulposus, is a soft gelatinous structure that moves within the disc. This functions as a shock absorber for the spine. The outer portion, the annulus fibrosus, is a tough exterior that surrounds the nucleus pulposus. This outer layer helps keep the inner layer within the disc, thus helping prevent disc bulges or herniations. The purpose of this structure is to withstand loads, limit the amount of rotation of the spine, and limit bending motions to help prevent injuries. Together, these two substances work together to make sure the spine has a cushion and flexibility while also helping to protect the spine from damage.
What are some possible injuries to the intervertebral discs?
The discs are constantly under pressure due to gravity. Sometimes, the pressure is too much and can cause damage to the discs. Traumatic damage to the discs can be caused by lifting something heavy or with improper posture, a slip or fall, or a sudden movement, among other things. Having trauma to the disc can cause it to bulge or suffer a herniation. When a disc has a bulge the nucleus pulposus pushes on the annulus fibrosus, but the annulus fibrosus remains intact. This can cause the annulus fibrosus to push into the spinal canal and put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves coming off the spinal cord. If a disc bulge is not corrected, it can eventually lead to a disc herniation. A herniation is when the nucleus pulposus breaks through the annulus fibrosus and starts to leak into the spinal canal and the surrounding nerves. Both injuries can cause pain in the area and radiate to other parts of the body. Herniations in the neck can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in the arms, hands and fingers. Disc herniations in the lower back can lead to the same symptoms in the legs and feet.
Can chiropractic care help with disc bulges or herniations?
Chiropractic care is one of the best ways to treat an injured disc. There are a number of therapies that a chiropractor can use to help with the symptoms that are associated with a disc problem. The most common treatment used by chiropractors to treat a disc bulge or herniation is the chiropractic adjustment. The main goal of an adjustment is to realign the spine. In doing so, pressure is removed from the discs and nerves, which then relieves the symptoms that are associated with an injured disc. At Apex Chiropractic, we use a variety of adjustments that are specific to each patient, and can alter the adjustment to be more effective for a disc problem.
One of the best therapies for injured discs is decompression therapy. This therapy stretches out the spine to open up the disc spaces between the vertebra. By doing this, it takes pressure off of the discs and gives it the opportunity to move back into place. It also allows more blood flow and nutrients to get into the space to allow the disc to heal better. At Apex Chiropractic, we have found that the combination of adjustments with decompression is a highly effective treatment for patients with disc bulges or degenerative discs. Â
When it comes to discs issues, chiropractic care is one of the best ways to treat discs without requiring surgery. At Apex Chiropractic, we implement a specific care plan for each patient to best suit their needs. We offer multiple services, such as adjustments and decompression, that have shown positive results in treating disc injuries. If you or someone you know is currently suffering from a disc bulge or a degenerative disc, feel free to call our office to make an appointment or you can schedule online. If you have any questions please leave them below and we will be sure to answer them.