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Disc Disorders and How Chiropractic Can Help

by: Matt Murphy DC

What are intervertebral discs disorders?

Intervertebral disc disorders including herniations, bulges, protrusions, sequestrations, thinning discs, degenerated discs and “slipped discs” are conditions that are commonly seen in a chiropractic office. The intervertebral disc (IVD) connects two vertebrae in the spine and helps to counteract forces that cause compression and elongation of the disc. The IVD also provides adequate space for the spinal nerves to exit out of holes called foramina in the spine. Disc disorders can cause the disc to decrease in height and also to push the disc into the exiting nerve root resulting in pain which often causes symptoms in the affected limb. Common symptoms of disc disorders in a limb include pain, burning, tingling, numbness, weakness, and decreased reflexes. These symptoms are collectively called radicular pain. When these symptoms occur in the legs, we refer to them as sciatica, which refers to the nerve in the leg which is commonly affected. Symptomatic disc disorders are most commonly seen in the lower back and neck, but can also occur in the mid back.

I personally suffered a disc issue in my early 20’s after lifting a heavy object, which resulted in muscle spasms and severe pain in my lower back as well as debilitating sciatica. Luckily, I was in chiropractic college at the time and was treated immediately with chiropractic care and made a speedy recovery over the course of a month or two.

How are intervertebral disc disorders managed?

Disc disorders are exceedingly common and are generally treated without invasive procedures.

Chiropractic care helps to restore joint motion and stability to affected areas and helps to reduce radicular pain in the affected limb. Spinal manipulation, myofascial release, and corrective exercises are the key components of treatment when it comes to managing disc disorders. In addition learning proper lifting mechanics and limiting prolonged sitting can also help to decrease disc pain in the lower back. Sitting produces pressure on the IVD known as intrathecal pressure within the spine. Higher and prolonged intrathecal pressure can irritate and compress the IVD, resulting in pain and inflammation. In addition, natural anti-inflammatories are also beneficial in reducing inflamed discs. Two exceptional products that accomplish this that we carry in the office are called Merivia and Inflammatone. Meriva is highly concentrated turmeric. Turmeric is a spice that contains ingredients called curcumins which help to naturally reduce inflammation without any side effects to the GI system or liver. Inflammatone is a blend of natural anti-inflammatories along with proteolytic enzymes that assist in reducing inflammation.

Common Questions regarding disc disorders

Do I need imaging before being seen by a chiropractor if I suspect I have a disc issue?

No, most disc disorders can be diagnosed through a detailed physical exam and history. Radiographs also known as xrays cannot visualize the actual disc but give us information on the height of the disc and health of the nearby vertebrae. MRI imaging is generally considered the best way to view the disc. MRI imaging is generally only needed when disc issues are not improving with conservative care and for certain red flag symptoms identified by a physician. If a patient has had prior imaging performed, we recommend bringing those results with you on your first appointment.

Can I get adjusted?

Yes! Chiropractic adjustments are beneficial and safe for disc issues and often provide relief immediately. In addition to adjustments certain forms of traction are also beneficial.

Do disc bulges/herniations ever go back to “normal”?

Most disc bulges or herniations usually do not go back to how they were originally, but occasionally we will see disc bulges or sequestrations improve on follow up MRI’s. However, most symptoms of disc issues will improve despite imaging findings.

Check out the video below and if you have further questions or think you might have issues regarding a disc, please do not hesitate to make an appointment.

Dr. Matt Murphy, D.C.

STRETCHES FOR DISC ISSUES

  • “Dr. Molly is wonderful. She is kind and motivated to relieve my pain and discomfort so I can resume regular activities. Her recommended homework exercises are simple and take little time, but they have brought awareness of the underlying causes of my low back pain. Treatment has progressed rapidly and yoga and cycling are fun again. She is brilliant!”
    --Ken G – Google

  • “I have been seeing Dr. Hall since I moved to Raleigh in 2007. She cares about people and will give you homework (exercises) because she wants you to get better. Wish I didn't have to share her. ”
    -Kristin L – Google

  • “I have been to many different practitioners over the years for chronic pain in my left shoulder, but Active Chiro is getting me on the right track! Dr. Molly and Dr. Jenni are great, and I have found that combining the chiro/ART with acupuncture at Active Chiro with Stephanie Vanover has been life changing so far! ”
    -Angela H – Google

  • “After 12yrs in clinical practice, Dr. Molly Hall is hands down my favorite Chiropractor I have ever worked with. Not only is she an incredible practitioner, she is always PRESENT, her staff is gracious and professional, and her clinic space is a breath of fresh air! Because she practices ART (Active Release Technique), and NKT (Neurokinetic Therapy) I find that she has more tools than the average Chiropractor. She is my go to for personal injuries, and general body/joint upkeep, and she is my #1 referral for all of my patients as well. ”
    -Meaghan D – Google

  • “Wow. Just wow. I agree with all of what the past reviewers have to say. It is not hyperbole. Working with Dr. Jenni has probably been the most positive and pleasurable experience with the medical world in my entire life. I was is so much pain I was barely sleeping at night even with Acet or Ibuprofen. In less than 2 months, with Dr. Jenni's help and following her advice, I not only feel healed, I feel 10 years younger. And the entire staff is super friendly and competent. I am so grateful for Active Chiropractic. ”
    -Reed A. – Google

  • “Dr. Jennifer Lung is the best chiropractor I've seen in a decade. It's hard to find a chiro who isn't a total "quack" or trying to squeeze as much money out of you as possible, but those at Active Chiropractic have always looked out for my health before anything else. Dr. Lung gives me exercises after every appointment and it's clear that she genuinely cares about her patient's health and progress. The office is clean, modern, and cozy. I always leave feeling right! ”
    -Maura R. – Google