A bulging disc (slipped disc) is a common spinal injury we see in practice. Many patients come to see us and say they have a slipped disc. However, the term ‘slipped disc’ is a misnomer because it suggests that the disc has moved out of position. Discs are surrounded by strong ligaments, tendons, muscles and fascia and cannot slip out of place.
A more suitable description of what occurs is a bulging disc or herniated disc. But can a chiro fix a ‘slipped disc’ or herniated disc? And what does chiropractic care for bulging or herniated discs look like?
What is a disc?
The term disc or spinal disc is short for intervertebral disc and they act like shock absorbers between your vertebrae. Discs are composed of a tough outer layer of cartilage surrounding a soft gel-like inner cartilage layer, a bit like a jam doughnut. As we move our disc will bulge on one side and stretch on the other.
What is a bulging disc?
A bulging disc is a disc that bulges out beyond the normal margins. This bulging only involves the outer layer of the disc and the inner soft layer remains intact. The bulging can press on the nerve roots and cause pain. If the disc bulge is in the lumbar spine it can cause pain down the leg (sciatica). Sciatica is injury or irritation to the sciatic nerve.
What is a disc herniation?
A disc herniation is when a crack occurs in the tough outer cartilage layer allowing the soft inner layer to protrude out of the disc. Compared to a bulging disc, a herniated disc is more likely to cause pain because it protrudes further out of the disc and is more likely to compress and inflame the nerve roots.
What are the symptoms of a disc bulge/herniation and where do they occur?
About 90% of bulging disc/herniation cases occur in the lower back, most commonly between L4 and L5. The bulge itself doesn’t cause pain but it can press on a nerve and cause inflammation, which then causes pain. In the lower back, a disc bulge/herniation can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and lead to sciatica, causing leg pain and possible tingling, numbness and weakness that originates in the lower back and radiates through the buttock and down the sciatic nerve in the back of the leg.
A cervical (neck) disc bulge/herniation can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness and weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, hands and fingers.
What causes a disc bulge (slipped disc)?
The most common causes of disc bulge are:
- Wear and tear
- Poor posture
- Repetitive movements. Work, lifestyle and certain movements put stress on the spine, especially the lower back.
- Poor lifting techniques
- High-impact trauma
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity are risk factors.
So, can a chiro fix a ‘slipped disc’?
Patients with disc bulges can be extremely challenging to treat unless the correct protocol is followed. The great news is that we offer extremely safe and effective treatment for disc bulges. Our clinic has over 25 years of experience in delivering high-quality chiropractic treatment to people with disc-related issues.
At your initial appointment, your Chiropractor Karrinyup will go through a thorough medical history, do a physical examination and perform orthopaedic and neurological tests. They may also perform X-rays or refer for an MRI if necessary.
Our Chiropractors will evaluate the whole spine, not just the area that is painful. He or she wants to see how well your spine is functioning overall. What happens in one area of your spine can affect other areas of your spine or body. They will then create an effective treatment plan tailored to you.
Chiropractic treatments may include the neural-organisational technique, gentle pelvic blocking and postural correction techniques. We will also give lifestyle advice and, once patients are stable, an exercise program may be recommended.
What your treatment plan may look like
Of course, everybody is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to disc protrusion and chiropractic treatment.
- Spinal manipulation. This includes chiropractic adjustments and realignment of the spine.
- Massage and heat therapy. Relaxing muscles around the area can improve your spinal health.
- Lifestyle recommendations. Your chiropractic care will include a discussion of your history, and what may have caused the problem in the first place. Your chiropractor can then recommend exercises to help strengthen your muscles and provide additional support to your spinal column, as well as advice around nutrition and posture.
Start your journey to being pain-free
If you’re dealing with any pain associated with disc protrusion, like neck pain, back pain, or leg pain, book in with the experienced Karrinyup Wellness Centre team. With over 20 years of experience delivering quality healthcare, we’re a chiropractor in Karrinyup you can trust. Book an appointment and we’ll get you up and moving again in no time.
