A herniated disk is a painful condition that occurs along the spine, most often in the lower back. It can be traced to a number of causes, from age-related disc regeneration to muscular strain. Most chiropractors say that recognizing the signs of a herniated disk will help you seek treatment before the condition becomes debilitating, so here’s a look at three common symptoms.

3 Signs You Have a Herniated Disk

1. Neck Pain

If the herniated disk is located in the neck, this can cause pain and a tingling sensation in the neck, shoulders, and arms. This can be a dull, throbbing pain, or a sharp pain that is made worse when turning your head or bending over. You may also feel numb or cold in the neck or shoulder, or experience persistent headaches. Seek help from a chiropractor early on to reduce the pain, or if it starts to travel further down your arm or leg.

2. Pain or Numbness on One Side

One of the most common symptoms of a herniated disk is nerve pain, burning, or numbness that occurs primarily on one side of the body. This may be in the lower area of the back, as well as the arms, buttocks, and thighs. Again, seeking help from a chiropractor early on will help stop the issue from growing worse over time.

3. Pain That Worsens With Various Movements

People with herniated disks typically experience worsening pain with various types of movements, such as standing up from a chair or even sitting down. Laughing, sneezing, or yawning can also put pressure on the abdomen and exacerbate the pain from the pinched nerves. If these symptoms sound familiar, get help from a professional chiropractor as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of a herniated disk, seeking chiropractic care right away will help you find relief from the pain. For the leading board-certified chiropractors in Soldotna, AK, put your trust in the team at West Chiropractic Clinic. They will identify the underlying source of your condition and work with you to come up with an effective customized treatment plan. Call (907) 262-9171 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their full list of services.