A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured, slipped, or bulging disc, is one of the most common causes of leg, back, and neck pain. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage. This might cause numbness and weakness, usually in the feet and hands. At Spine Pain Center, we know how disruptive herniated discs can be. We strive to relieve you of the pain from herniated discs for a healthy, active lifestyle.
Symptoms of Herniated Discs
Herniated discs can develop when playing sports or when you twist or stretch incorrectly, auto accidents, or due to old age. The symptoms become more noticeable and unbearable over time. A few of herniated disc symptoms include:
- Sciatica
- Lower back pain
- Muscle weakness
- Tingling in the legs
- Numbness in extremities
- Radiating pain in the limbs
- Pain when moving the neck
- Difficulty stretching or moving
- Changes in bowel or bladder function
Diagnosing Herniated Discs
We perform a comprehensive physical exam to check your back, neck, and leg tenderness. We can also conduct a neurological exam to check your:
- Reflexes
- Walking ability
- Muscle strength
- Ability to feel light pinpricks, touches, or vibrations
However, we might order diagnostic tests if we suspect another condition or need to see which nerve is affected.
Treatment of Herniated Discs
Here are some ways to manage the symptoms of herniated discs:
Pelvic Blocking Treatments
This technique uses cushioned wedges purposely crafted for chiropractic use. During the procedure, we put these wedges under the sides of your pelvis. They naturally draw away the herniated disc from the affected nerves.
Flexion-Distraction Technique
This form of spinal adjustment helps reduce the pressure on your discs. During this procedure, you lie on a specialized table to make it easier for us to stretch your spine. We apply gentle force to the affected areas with a pumping rhythm. Flexion-distraction is a pain-free and gentle procedure making it the best option for patients suffering from severe pain. We can also recommend other treatments like:
- Laser therapy
- Massage therapy
- 3D active traction
- Ultrasound-guided injections
These conservative treatments target the root cause of your herniated disc and eliminate the painful symptoms.
Visit Spine Pain Center for Herniated Disc Relief
Chiropractic care is the best treatment for herniated discs because it relieves pain and supports the healing process. If you’re experiencing pain and suspect it could be due to a herniated disc, our team at Spine Pain Center is here to help. We provide quality care for our patients in and around North Charleston, Mt Pleasant, Surfside Beach, Summerville, North Myrtle Beach, and Irmo. Call us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations.
