Slipped or Herniated Discs – Symptoms and Chiropractic Treatment Options
A spinal disc herniation, more commonly known as a slipped disc, is when one of the intervertebral discs of the spine is torn slightly, allowing the soft central portion to leak out and become trapped between the vertebrae. This injury is more common in the elderly and those whose occupation requires them to lift heavy loads, as age and stress wear at the discs over time. While herniated discs can be quite painful, chiropractic treatment can aid in reducing pain, improving spine health and possibly even preventing the necessity of surgery in some cases.
Herniated discs tend to occur towards the base of the spine, most notably the lumbar region and segments of the tailbone. It is possible for this injury to occur elsewhere, although these are generally caused by trauma as opposed to wear and tear.
The first and most obvious symptom of this injury is constant, unrelenting pain. In minor cases, the pain may be barely noticeable. In fact, studies have shown that a large percentage of the population has some degree of slipped discs that in fact cause them no pain, and are quickly healed by the body without their knowledge. However, in severe cases the pain can be so horrible as to incapacitate the sufferer. These pains tend to occur on only one side of the body, and are not confined to the spine. It is typical for limbs, most often the knees and legs, to also be a source of extreme pain as the nerve endings are pinched by the vertebrae.