Disc Injury
Have you been told that you have a slipped disc or a disc injury? Disc problems can range from mild to severe, but most require some level of professional attention. It is important to understand your condition and what it means for your health. A licensed Breaux Bridge LA, Lafayette LA, or Youngsville LA chiropractor can help you create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
The small pads located between your vertebrae are known as intervertebral discs. Each disc has a strong outer layer and a soft, gel-like center—much like a jelly-filled doughnut. These discs serve several key functions: they connect and separate the vertebrae, absorb shock, and protect the spine from injury. Without them, your vertebrae would rub together, making movement of your upper body extremely painful or even impossible.
Disc Injury Diagnosis
When a disc is diagnosed as protruding, it means that the soft gel-like center has begun to push outward or bulge unevenly due to injury. This can place pressure on nearby nerve roots, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness that may vary in intensity.
A herniated disc occurs when the outer layer of the disc ruptures, allowing the inner gel to push outward. This can cause significant pain and nerve irritation, often leading to symptoms that radiate into the arms or legs depending on the location of the injury.
The most severe type of disc injury is a disc extrusion. In this case, the inner gel material extends far beyond its normal boundary or even separates from the disc entirely. This can cause intense pain and drastically limit movement, often requiring careful and targeted treatment.
If you have any questions about our Breaux Bridge LA, Lafayette LA, or Youngsville LA locations, or would like to learn more about chiropractic care at Hargrave Chiropractic, please give us a call.
Treatment Options
If you have a disc injury, do not lose hope—there are effective options available. With proper care, a damaged disc can often heal and return to normal function. A balanced approach that includes a healthy diet, low-impact exercise, and the use of alternating warm and cold compresses can help reduce pain and promote recovery.
In some severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. During a discectomy procedure, the damaged portion of the disc is removed to relieve pressure on nearby nerves and tissues. This surgery is relatively common, with nearly half a million performed each year, and is considered minimally invasive.
If you are experiencing back pain that may be related to a disc injury, contact our team at Hargrave Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation. Taking action early gives you more treatment options and a better chance for a full recovery.