What is a Slipped Disk and Do You Have One?
- By susant3t
- •
- 04 Apr, 2018
- •
Do You Have a Slipped Disc? The spine is a complex mechanical structure composed of bones (vertebrae) separated by pads of fibrocartilage (discs) that allow some movement between these bones. The discs also create a space between each vertebra that allows a nerve to pass through on each side. The nerves that pass between the […]
Do You Have a Slipped Disc?
The spine is a complex mechanical structure composed of bones (vertebrae) separated by pads of fibrocartilage (discs) that allow some movement between these bones.
The discs also create a space between each vertebra that allows a nerve to pass through on each side. The nerves that pass between the vertebrae in the lower back travel down each leg while the nerves that pass between the vertebrae in the lower neck travel down each arm.
Individually, each disc can be compared to a jelly donut – they have a softer gel-like center surrounded by a tougher exterior. Like a jelly donut, the interior can sometimes squeeze out. Unlike a jelly donut, this can be more than a minor annoyance; this can compress the nearby nerve and cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling or even weakness in an arm or leg.
Such treatments may include manual manipulation techniques or mechanical traction therapy to reduce the degree of disc herniation and relieve pressure on the nearby nerve.
Other treatments may include anti-inflammatory and/or pain medications, injections and a variety of more invasive surgical interventions, depending on the problem type and severity in each particular case.
However, it is generally recommended that you AVOID trying to stretch or do other exercises prior to being evaluated and given appropriate recommendations as certain movements may worsen this condition.
There are also “red-flags” that your provider will look for such as a loss of bowel or bladder function or control, numbness or “pins and needles” sensation in the groin and inner thighs as well as some other symptoms and physical findings that may indicate a rare but serious condition known as Cauda Equina Syndrome (if you do have these symptoms or if your condition is rapidly worsening you should have immediate ER evaluation to ensure appropriate timely management).
It is important to consult with your primary care physician or other qualified provider to ensure that you receive the necessary evaluation (including MRI and/or other testing if/as appropriate in each individual case) to determine the best course of care for your condition and to allow you to begin this care as early as possible for the best therapeutic results and outcome.
.
.
.
About the author:
Dr. Peter C. Spathis is a chiropractic physician providing evidence based care for a variety of spine related conditions, including evaluation and management of spinal disc herniation and associated disorders. Contact information is provided through his office website at: http://www.spathischiropractic.com
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Peter_C_Spathis,_DC/1598458
What if you could reduce stress by visiting a chiropractor? And what if we said there are other notable benefits of chiropractic care that go beyond reducing aches and pains? Well, keep on reading if you want to know more.
Do you want to know the keys to improving your quality of life and your body? Well, there are a few things that all of us can do every day that can help get us there.
If you don’t know what you’re supposed to do after being in a car accident, with TBI or not, don’t worry. Keep on reading to learn everything you need to know about TBI and car accident injuries.
Personal injury attorneys often emphasize the significance of meticulous record-keeping and provide valuable tips for effectively documenting your injuries. This article explores why documenting your injuries is essential and offers practical advice for doing so.
There are various types of massage therapies, including sports massage, trigger point massage, deep tissue massage, and Swedish massage. Although these treatments can range in pressure, they all offer invaluable benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Read on for the top six benefits of massage therapy.
Classic clues of an out-of-balance gut include: feeling tired much of the time, catching colds easily and more often, allergies, food sensitivities, and having frequent gastrointestinal issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, etc.
Chiropractic adjustments and techniques are a range of therapeutic approaches that are used to treat joint dysfunctions and musculoskeletal pain, as well as other health issues. Read on to learn if it's right for you...
Are you looking for a new, effective way to improve your physical health? Medical massage therapy is here to provide the natural health benefits you need. From optimizing circulation to relieving muscle tension and inflammation, medical massage is a powerful treatment for pain reduction and overall wellness.
