What is a herniated disc? Between each of the vertebra of the spine below the top two is an intervertebral disc made up of soft, jelly-like centers (called the nucleus pulposus) with a firm exterior layer. The spinal discs help cushion the spinal column, keep the spine flexible, and protect the spinal cord by acting as a shock absorber when we walk, run, jump, and move around. A herniated disc (also known as a slipped disc) is a medical condition that occurs when the inner gelatinous substance leaks out and presses on the surrounding spinal nerves. Herniated discs can be painful and potentially debilitating, and chiropractic care can be an excellent modality for helping minimize painful symptoms related to herniated discs and other musculoskeletal system conditions. If you or a loved one is experiencing a herniated disc in Carrollton, GA, Dr. Pete Lazarnick (“Dr. Pete”) is an experienced and qualified chiropractor who has been providing outstanding care to Carrollton and the surrounding communities since 1978.
Symptoms of a herniated disc depend upon the location of the injury. A herniated disc located in the back (herniated lumbar disc) can present with back pain, numbness or tingling in the legs and feet, sciatica, and muscle weakness. A herniated disc in the neck (herniated cervical disc) can result in pain between or near the shoulder blades, neck pain, numbness, tingling, or pain that radiates down to the arm, hand, and fingers, and pain that increases when the neck is turned.
As we age, the disc material in the spine naturally begins to degenerate, and the supporting ligaments become weaker. Risk factors for a herniated disc include repetitive motions, sudden strain from improper bending and lifting, and obesity. Other risk factors include genetics, physically demanding jobs, frequent driving, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. Men are at greater risk of incurring a herniated disc than women.
Dr. Pete in Carrollton, GA, offers expert noninvasive chiropractic adjustments that can help relieve the painful symptoms of a herniated disc and prevent the injury from worsening. Flexion-Distraction technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment that helps reduce pressure on the spine by moving the herniated disc back into its proper position and away from the irritated nerves. Dr. Pete may also recommend spinal decompression treatment, which utilizes motorized traction to help gently stretch the spine. Spinal decompression treatment can be effective for taking pressure off the spinal discs and reducing pain and helps promote the movement of oxygen, water, and nutrient-rich fluids into the injured area to foster healing.
Don't suffer in pain and silence. To get help for a herniated disc in Carrollton, GA, contact Dr. Pete for an appointment today! (770) 832-2226