Help for Herniated Discs in Lacey

pointing at spine Radiating pain, local pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness—these are all common symptoms of a herniated disc, which can significantly impact daily life. So, what exactly is this disc condition? A herniated disc happens when the soft, jelly-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer. This can put pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.

It’s important to distinguish herniated discs from bulging discs. A disc bulge is a milder condition in which the disc material starts to protrude outwards but hasn’t yet ruptured or herniated.

Causes and Risk Factors

Herniated discs often develop due to a combination of factors, including:

Trauma: Injuries from falls, car accidents, or sports.
Degeneration: Poor spinal health and lack of movement over time can weaken discs, making them more prone to injury.
Improper Lifting: Twisting or bending incorrectly while lifting can damage discs.
Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary habits like prolonged sitting, poor posture, and excessive weight can strain the spine and contribute to disc issues.

In many cases, herniations don’t occur suddenly. Instead, they result from years of unhealthy habits, gradually weakening the disc.

The Chiropractic Assessment Process

At our practice, the first step in addressing herniated discs is a thorough evaluation with Dr. Sweet. We’ll gather detailed information about your symptoms, medical history, and any relevant lifestyle factors, such as posture, physical activity, or previous injuries. Next, a physical examination will be conducted to assess your range of motion, posture, and specific movements that may trigger pain.

We may perform some neurological testing to determine if the herniation is affecting nearby nerves by evaluating reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation. In some cases, Dr. Sweet may recommend specialized imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to confirm the presence and severity of the herniated disc. Based on these findings, we will create a customized care plan tailored to address the root cause of your symptoms and support your recovery.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Herniated Discs

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution to help promote healing and alleviate discomfort. A key component of this approach is spinal adjustments, which realign the spine to improve proper movement, and to reduce pressure on the affected disc and surrounding nerves, ultimately helping to restore proper function.

Decompression therapy is another effective technique we use. This method gently stretches the spine to create negative pressure within the disc, encouraging the herniated material to retract and relieving nerve compression. Additionally, Dr. Sweet provides targeted corrective exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and enhance spinal stability, contributing to long-term relief and improved function.

Preventative Care for a Healthy Spine

Just as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist for check-ups every six months can keep your smile healthy, prevention plays a critical role in maintaining spinal health. Here are some simple things you can do to protect your discs:

Maintain an active lifestyle with exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga.
Practice proper lifting techniques—bend at the knees, not the waist.
Keep your spine aligned through regular chiropractic check-ups.
Eat a nutritious diet to support spinal health and reduce inflammation.
Use ergonomic furniture and tools at work and home.

Get the Relief and Support You Need Today

If you’re dealing with back pain, sciatica, or symptoms of a herniated disc, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment at Atlas Chiropractic PC today to take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free spine.

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