Disc compression, which is also known as a bulging, ruptured, slipped, prolapsed or herniated disc, is when the nerves coming out of one or more discs is placed under unusual pressure. This debilitating, painful condition is caused when the gelatin like pads between the vertebrae become misshapen due to deterioration, constant strain or sudden impact with a hard object. Disc compression can cause severe, recurring back pain or permanent damage to parts of the back and spine. A compressed disc may be cause by aging, improper diet, smoking, carrying great weights, automobile accidents or falls and it’s important they are taken care of as soon as symptoms occur.
People of above average height or who are morbidly obese are also at increased risks for developing compressed discs. The strain of the excess weight can cause the disc sack to begin to break down or become misshapen or compressed. The discs themselves are composed of cartilage with a jelly like solution in the center. The discs act like shock absorbers which prevent the vertebrae from rubbing against each other and pinching the nerves. As such, they are called intervertebral discs. The breakdown of these discs leads to excruciating pain.
There are several ways to treat problems with the discs. One of the safest, least expensive and most effective is chiropractic manipulation. Many people who choose chiropractic to treat their compressed, bulging or herniated discs are able to get instant relief. The chiropractors of Premier Health Chiropractors are able to do this by properly aligning the spine. This takes the pressure off the nerves and puts it on the discs as the system is designed to function. For most people this is enough to reduce or completely eliminate the pain and enable them to gradually return to their normal life.
In some cases the patient requires a series of treatments to reduce disc compression. In those situations our chiropractors will perform a series of spinal adjustments to return the appropriate intersegment disc spacing. The use of repetition of properly directed pressure by our chiropractors gradually reduces the compression of the disc and returns the spine to its natural balance. The earlier the patient receives treatment the better off they will be. The first sign of a problem is usually numbness or tingling in the legs, buttocks and back. As soon as those symptoms appear the sufferer should see a chiropractor.
Research has shown that spinal manipulation and chiropractic care is a safe, effective way to treat pain in all areas of the back. Premier Health Chiropractors are able to use their hands to affect spinal manipulation to restore proper alignment of the musculoskeletal structure of the body. Our chiropractors are able to help the body heal itself without the use of dangerous drugs. Many people choose chiropractic because it is safe, effective, and reduces the need for unnecessary surgeries.