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If you have chronic back pain, you should try to determine the root cause of the problem. Often, this discomfort will stem from issues that affect the spine and nerves around it—such as herniated disks. This condition is common among older adults and people with active lifestyles, and can lead to chronic pain. Below is more information about herniated disks so that you can receive the proper treatment.

What Is a Herniated Disk?

Your body has spinal disks between the vertebrae to help connect the spine and keep it flexible. These disks consist of a tough, outer-edge of cartilage and a gel-like inner core. Sometimes, the inner material can protrude or bulge, placing pressure on the spine and surrounding nerves. If the bulging advances, the outer cartilage may burst, allowing the central disk material to leak out. When this happens, the disk is herniated.

Herniated disks can happen for many reasons. However, they often have a link to aging and degenerative disk disease. They may also occur when a person performs repetitive physical actions, uses an improper lifting technique, or experiences a back injury.

What Are the Symptoms?

back painIf the ruptured material compresses nearby nerves, you will likely experience chronic back pain. Depending on the extent of the damage to the nerves, you may also experience pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.

This occurs because the spine connects to these body parts, and the nerve pain will travel along it. In some cases, herniated disks may not present immediate symptoms, and a doctor must perform spinal imaging to detect them.

How Can You Treat Herniated Disks?

A herniated disk can sometimes heal without treatment after considerable rest. However, if you experience significant back pain or issues with mobility, then you will likely need professional help. For example, one non-invasive form of treatment is chiropractic therapy.

After your chiropractor locates the herniated disk, they may prescribe a variety of treatments to reduce the pressure on the nerve and promote healing—such as physical therapy or spinal adjustments. Ultrasound therapy is another option to reduce pain and swelling. This is when ultrasonic frequencies apply heat to the affected area, shrinking the disk and allowing the body to heal the nerves.

 

When you have back pain or other physical health issues, turn to Walch Chiropractic Center in Leeds, AL. Providing chiropractic therapy to the Tri-State area for more than 25 years, Dr. Alan C. Walch, Jr. can identify herniated disks and other spinal issues causing discomfort. He utilizes safe and effective treatment methods—such as spinal adjustments and decompression traction—to heal injuries, relieve pain, and improve mobility without the need for surgery or prescription medications. Visit this center online to learn more about their services. Call (205) 699­ 4433 to schedule an appointment.

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