HERNIATED DISC
A herniated disc occurs when some of a spinal disc’s soft inner material pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer. Spinal discs cushion the bones of your spine, called vertebrae. Herniation can occur in the neck or back. Some people have no symptoms; others develop pain, tingling, numbness or weakness when nearby nerves are affected.
Symptoms depend on the location of the herniation and whether a nerve is involved. Seek medical assessment for neck or back pain that spreads into an arm or leg, especially with numbness, tingling or weakness. Read Mayo Clinic’s overview of herniated discs.
Age-related changes can make spinal discs less flexible and more vulnerable to herniation. An injury can also contribute. Natural aging cannot be completely prevented.
Discuss safe lifting, regular activity and any work-related strain with your clinician. Advice should fit your symptoms and physical abilities.
A lower-back herniated disc may cause pain traveling into a leg, tingling, numbness or weakness.
Seek emergency care for new loss of bladder or bowel control. New or worsening weakness or difficulty walking also needs prompt medical assessment. Do not wait for a routine chiropractic appointment.
Care depends on your symptoms and examination. Initial treatment often includes changes to activity, prescribed exercises or physical therapy, and medication when appropriate. Many people improve without surgery, although persistent symptoms or weakness may need specialist assessment.
These treatments aim to relieve symptoms; they do not guarantee that a herniated disc will heal. Read the AAOS guide to herniated discs.
If you are considering spinal decompression therapy, ask about the evidence, risks, alternatives and whether it is appropriate for your diagnosis. Motorized traction should not be presented as a guaranteed disc repair.
Call 704-461-1836 to discuss an evaluation. Urgent symptoms require medical care rather than a routine appointment.
