Our Knoxville chiropractic clinic provides treatment and pain relief for patients suffering from a herniated disc (also called "slipped disc"), bulging disc and Degenerative disc disease.
Herniated Disc
Intervertebral discs are situated between each vertebra in the spine. The discs have a soft inner gel and a hard outer shell, and serve as built-in shock absorbers to cushion impacts on your spine as it flexes and moves in daily movements like walking, twisting, bending and stretching. Spinal degeneration is a loss of function and structure of the spine, caused by conditions like arthritis. When spinal degeneration occurs, discs start to become brittle and weak.
The discs can start to change shape and slip out of place onto nerves; this is called a herniated disc (or ruptured disc or slipped disc).When the gel inside the disc leaks out through a tear in the hard outer shell, a herniation occurs. The gel can press against nerves to create back pain that originates in the spine and can sometimes radiate as shooting pain into the legs.
Non-surgical Treatment for Herniated Disc & Bulging Disc
Chiropractors can offer relief through nonsurgical treatment options. Our Knoxville chiropractor, Dr. Bert, will do an orthopedic and neurological assessment of the entire spine, looking at your reflexes, muscle strength, posture and any loss of sensation.
The treatment plan will involve spinal manipulation (chiropractic adjustment), manual therapies, and therapeutic exercises or stretches tailored to your typical level of activity, overall health, and current pain level:
Chiropractors don’t “pop” your disc back into place—that is a misconception. They also don’t use forceful adjustments to manhandle your disc back in place. If you hear a popping sound, that is essentially gas release from a joint—that’s all! Chiropractic care involves gentle low force techniques that over time restore your spine and discs to their proper positions.
Many patients find great relief from chiropractic care for their herniated discs. Just know that in some cases, your chiropractor may refer you to a spine surgeon. Sometimes, the initial exam reveals extensive disc damage that can only be repaired by surgery. Sometimes, symptoms don’t improve with chiropractic care. In both these cases, your chiropractor may recommend a pain specialist, a spine surgeon, or both. Often, chiropractors are part of a team of professionals that co-manage or group to manage your herniated disc issues.
If you are suffering from symptoms related to a bulging or herniated disc, call us to today to set up your first appointment! 865.337.5574