Are you looking for non-surgical treatment options for disc herniation?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft interior material of a disc pushes out through a tear or weakening in the outer covering. Though there are distinctions between the terms, herniated discs may also be referred to as ruptured, protruding, prolapsed, or slipped discs. Basically, a herniated disc is a disc no longer in its natural state. Herniated discs can be painful because they can cause pinching to the spinal cord and nerves. Many assume their only option is surgery, but that is not true. Here are two non-surgical treatment options for disc herniation.
Chiropractic Adjustments for Disc Herniation
Chiropractic care centers around spinal health, making adjustments an excellent non-invasive treatment option for disc herniation. Discs are the pads of cartilage between the 24 vertebrae in the spine. A herniated disc is essentially a disc that is not in its proper place. A chiropractor will perform a series of adjustments to help return the spine to a more natural alignment. These gentle manipulations of the spine will help reduce the stress to the herniated disc.
Spinal Decompression for Disc Herniation
Spinal Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical treatment to relieve neck or back pain and other
problems associated with spinal disc injuries, such as a herniated disc. The herniated disc puts stress and pressure on the spine. Not only is the issue painful, but the stressed disc also restricts the flow of nutrients to itself, which is needed to heal. Spinal Decompression Treatment is a non-invasive treatment that provides gentle decompression of the disc through the use of a special table.
Q: How does the spinal decompression table work?
The patient is strapped to the spinal decompression table so that as it moves, it applies a distraction force to the targeted area of the spine, in this case, the herniated disc. A computer controls the distraction force, which is applied in between periods of relaxation. Gently pulling the spine apart creates a vacuum effect within the disc, allowing the disc to heal. Decompression therapy works in very minute increments, which allows the disc to retract back to its normal position over the course of treatment. Studies have shown spinal decompression to be a proven treatment option to restore disc height, help with back pain, and heal issues associated with disc herniation.
Spinal Decompression or Adjustments: How to Choose
Your chiropractor will review your history, exam findings and diagnostic imaging to determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the disc herniation, they may recommend spinal decompression, chiropractic adjustments, or a combination of the two. Both treatment options are viable non-surgical methods for reducing stress on the disc. However, some patients may not qualify for spinal decompression therapy, such as pregnant patients or those with any type of hardware in their spine. Your chiropractor will conduct a thorough exam and discuss your options with you.
Central Florida Chiropractors: If you are suffering from a herniated disc or similar problem, contact our Lake Mary office to see how we can help you. We are passionate about helping people heal without the use of surgery or drugs. We proudly serve the Lake Mary, Sanford, Longwood, and Metro Orlando areas.
