Chiropractic and Slipped Disc

WHAT IS A SLIPPED DISC?

Herniated disc or more commonly known as a slipped disc, is a condition in which people relate with long-standing back pain and numbness on the legs/hands.

Our spine is made up of bones with cartilages in between them which are in the shape of a disc. These discs in our spine are very important as they allow us to move our spine and act as the shock absorber of our spine when we go through daily activities such as walking and sitting`.

These discs could be damaged and protrude out to compress the surrounding nerves, causing pain and inflammation.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

The signs and symptoms of someone who has a slipped disc may vary from person to person.

Numbness in one or both legs
Numbness in one or both hands
Pain along the back, front or side of the thigh and calves
Tingling, aching, or burning sensation in the lower back, buttock region, or legs
A pulling sensation down one or both the legs
Unexplained muscle weakness

WHAT CAUSES A HERNIATED DISC ?

There are many possible causes for a slipped disc, the most common are ;

Lifting a heavy object such as a box, off the floor
A very high physically demanding occupation
A lot of repetitive bending and twisting of the lower back.

When a segment in the spine is under repetitive stress, such as repetitive bending and twisting, it can compress the disc which causes the content of the disc to protrude outwards. When the contents of the disc protrudes outwards, it could then potentially irritate the nerves along the spine which causes pain and discomfort.

NATURAL HISTORY

The severity of a herniated disc may worsen over time. Some people might find that consuming painkillers or NSAIDS may help with the pain and symptoms, however, that is just a temporary solution.

With a damaged disc in your spine, the function of a particular segment in your spine is compromised, however, your body will still demand normal function from it for various daily life activities which could potentially damage it further.

Many patients tend to ignore the initial signs and symptoms of a herniated disc and only proceed to seek treatment when the pain is unbearable.

WHOM DOES IT AFFECT?

The incidence of a herniated disc is about 5 to 20 cases per 1000 adults annually and is most common in people 30-50 years old. The most common areas that are affected are the Neck and the Lower back (Cervical and Lumbar spine).