How to Treat a Herniated Disc

Gainesville Chiropractor Helps Alleviate Pain & Discomfort from Vertebral Subluxation

Today, more people are seeking a chiropractor for herniated disc problems to help alleviate pain and to find an alternative to surgery.

WHAT IS A HERNIATED DISC?

Discs are located between the bones of the spine called vertebrae. Their job is to act like a shock absorber, allow movement of the backbone and to hold the vertebrae of the spine together. The soft inner layer of each disc is surrounded by an outer layer made of hard cartilage.

A disc bulge occurs when the disc is squeezed beyond its normal boundary. Disc herniation occurs when the soft inner substance oozes out of the disc. A vertebral subluxation is when one or more of the vertebrae move out of position and puts pressure on the spinal nerves interfering with the body’s ability to communicate.

COMMON CAUSES OF HERNIATED DISCS

Most people do not know the exact cause of a herniated disc. However, herniated discs most commonly affect older patients. As we age, the wear and tear takes its toll on the discs. In addition, the discs tend to lose their water content making them less flexible and more susceptible to injury. Other common causes include a slip and fall, heavy lifting, twisting and turning, being overweight, weak muscles and having a sedentary lifestyle.

SYMPTOMS OF A HERNIATED DISC

The most frequent symptom of a herniated disc is pain. The location of the herniated disc will affect which areas of the body will feel the most pain. Herniation in the neck region can cause pain in the neck, shoulder and arm. The pain may travel down one side of the body. It may also trigger migraines and headaches. Herniation in the back region can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks and legs. Other common symptoms include numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.

HOW TO TREAT A HERNIATED DISC

There are various approaches to treating herniated discs, but many patients choose chiropractic because of the painless technique offered by Dr. Tucker at Tucker Chiropractic. Chiropractic care is beneficial to patients because it takes a holistic approach to the healing process without the use of painkillers and in many cases is pain-free. It is also an alternative to surgery and the potential side effects and risks that come with surgery. After the initial exam, the chiropractor will develop a treatment plan that will include a treatment method, nutritional counseling or supplements, and an exercise plan.

GENTLE CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT FOR A HERNIATED DISC

Dr. Tucker is a Gainesville chiropractor who specializes in the Activator Method. This treatment method takes the place of manual adjustments by using an instrument to guide the chiropractor in making the adjustments. The Activator Method is gentle and pain-free. Unlike manual adjustments, there is no cracking, popping or twisting involved. Dr. Tucker is highly experienced and has treated many patients with a variety of conditions.