If you’ve suffered a back injury or pain, a friend might suggest that you’ve suffered a “slipped disc.” It’s a common injury, so you’ve heard of it before. But what exactly is a slipped disc?
Technically, discs don’t “slip.” That’s just a common slang term to refer to a disc that is bulging.
Discs are the tough layer of cartilage between the vertebrae in your spine, and they’re normally just the right size to fit in those tiny spaces. But sometimes, one of those discs can push into the spine and press on nerves there. So, we say it has slipped out of place, but the correct term would be “bulged.”
Believe it or not, bulging discs don’t always cause pain! Many people have them, and it’s a normal part of aging. They can go undetected for a long time, until you twist the wrong way or lift a heavy object. A small amount of strain, even from hard coughing, can be just enough to push the bulged disc onto some nerves. And then the result is severe pain, reduced mobility, and even organ dysfunction sometimes.
Luckily, a bulged disc can heal in time, and chiropractic treatment can support that process or even speed it up.
Treatment will consist of a consultation about your particular issue, and possibly chiropractic adjustments to relieve pressure on the spine. We will also talk about proper posture and ergonomic movement to prevent stress on your vertebrae and discs. And when you learn how to strengthen your core, you can use your abdominal leg muscles to better support your back.
If you think you’ve suffered a slipped or bulging disc, give us a call right away. We will schedule an appointment, develop a treatment plan, and get you on a path to healing.