Herniated Disk – A Little Slip

The soft, rubbery pads between the vertebrae of the spine that act as cushions are called disks. These disks absorb shock and help the back to bend and flex. When one of these disks slips, or herniates, the inner gel-like center of the disk bulges out through the edge of the disk into the spinal canal. This little slip, or herniation, can cause pain, weakness, numbness and tingling due to increased pressure on nerves and the spinal cord itself.

As we age, water in the disks decrease leading to decreased flexibility. Aside from age, other factors can contribute to an increased chance of herniated disks. These factors include weight, smoking, chronic repetitive movements and improper body mechanics. While those factors contribute slowly over months or years, acute trauma, such as an automobile accident, can cause a herniated disk immediately. A common disk herniation in the low back called sciatica causes symptoms of pain and weakness from the buttocks to the legs. If a herniation occurs in the cervical region of the spine, pain, weakness and tingling will radiate into the shoulders and arms, which side is affected is dependent on where the herniation occurred. A chiropractic physician deals with these types of issues daily and when seeking their services, it’s important to give them a complete and detailed health history that would reveal any trauma or chronic problems. A physical examination will be conducted. If pain continues, an MRI or CT scan would be ordered as well. Activity should be restricted while recovering. Strengthening exercises, hot/cold therapy, electric stimulation, bracing, and traction will be offered by a physician if indicated.

References Cited in this Article

www.aaos.org

www.about.com

www.mayoclinic.com