Herniated Disc Pain

By Robert Hermann DC at Hermann Wellness, Bloomington, IL

Board Certified in Chiropractic Orthopedics

The disc is the cartilage type material that separates each vertebrae in your spine. (see the introductory video on the homepage)  Inside the center of the disc is a ball of fluid the consistency of toothpaste called the nucleus pulposis.  This ball of fluid acts like a ball bearing or a hydraulic mechanism to absorb shock.  If you put enough pressure on your disc it can try to break through the disc and cause a disc herniation. This can put pressure on the nerve root which exits on either side of the vertebrae causing sciatica.

The disc does not have any nerve fibers sensitive to pain in the center of the disc.  If it did every time you stood up you would probably have pain.  Only the outer part of the disc has nerve fibers that are sensitive to pain.  So if the disc gets a herniation, bulge or tear, the nerve fibers on the outer part of the disc can be irritated.

Disc pain comprises 60% of back pain. Disc pain is usually nonspecific. It is difficult to pinpoint.  It can be on one side of your back or on both sides. It can give you pain in your back or your leg.  The leg pain can be on one side or both sides. Sitting usually aggravates disc pain. Repetitive bending will also aggravate disc pain.

 Please see my blog for additional articles on disc problems. if you think you're having disc pain contact our office for a consultation and exam. You are more than welcome to call on the phone and we can talk about your condition. Check out the new patient coupon on my homepage.

Hermann Wellness

309 663-2423