The spine is made up of a column of vertebrae cushioned by soft discs enabling us to move freely, bend, and twist without friction or pain. The discs are also necessary for protecting the vertebrae and their surrounding nerves.
Each disc is comprised of a strong outer layer and a soft, gel-like center. If the outer layer of the disc ruptures, the gel-like center may leak into the spinal canal. When that gel or part of the outer disc protrudes or presses against a nerve, it can cause extreme pain, discomfort and/or numbness. This common condition is referred to as a herniated disc .
While herniated discs are more common in the lower back or lumbar spine, they can also occur in the neck or cervical spine. Although a patient’s symptoms may vary depending on the herniated disc’s level of degradation and location, the weakness and pain may be debilitating at times, interfering with day-to-day life and activities.
What Causes a Herniated Disc?
Herniated discs can be brought upon by several factors, including:
- injury or impact
- overall wear and tear of the spine
- excessive weight
- degradation of the spine due to age
- lifting heavy objects or twisting abruptly
Treatments for Herniated Discs
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy makes use of the body’s own curative properties to aid in the healing process and alleviate pain. The procedure first involves a doctor drawing a small amount of blood from the patient. The blood is then placed into a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets.
Though platelets are mainly known for their ability to clot blood, they are also essential for general healing functions. Therefore, when they are injected directly into your injured or ailing body tissue, they release growth factors that stimulate and increase the body’s natural healing capability.
After a careful evaluation, our chiropractors may also use gentle manipulations or other chiropractic techniques to improve the discomfort and pain associated with herniated discs. Manipulations (or adjustments) are used to restore the correct alignment to your vertebrae, which helps to pressure off nerves and calm inflammation of the surrounding area.
Chronic back pain can be frustrating and debilitating, but we can help you get back to a pain-free life. If you are seeking effective and long-lasting relief for a herniated disc , call our medical clinic today at 661-587-0700 for a complimentary consultation.