Developing back pain impacts your life in unexpected ways. The pain may prevent you from enjoying your favorite activities and it may worsen over time when you ignore the symptoms. When you visit the Townsend Wellness Center in St. Robert, MO, you address the underlying cause of your discomfort and start the healing process. At our clinic, we recognize that the pain may stem from a herniated disc and we provide the solutions you need to recover.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, or slipped disc, refers to a bulge in the cushioning between the vertebrae of your spine. The disc provides cushion to absorb shocks and prevent the bones from directly rubbing against other bones in your spine.
Common signs and symptoms of a herniated disc include:
- Pain in your back
- Radiating pain, particularly in your legs or arms
- Weakness to specific area, such as your legs or arms
- Tingling sensations
A slipped disc causes compression on the nerves in your back, which may result in radiating pain or tingling in your extremities. Depending on the location of the herniated disc, the area you notice tingling and weakness may vary. Generally, a slipped disc in the upper back causes discomfort in your arms while the condition in your lower back may result in sciatica and symptoms in your legs.
How Your Chiropractor in St. Robert Evaluates a Herniated Disc
Your chiropractor in St. Robert evaluates your situation during the first appointment to ensure you obtain proper treatment. We usually start with a physical exam and a series of questions about your medical history. We may also ask about recent injuries and provide specific tests to identify the cause of your pain. While a herniated disc may cause specific symptoms, we do not assume that the underlying problem is a slipped disc until we evaluate your situation and needs.
Each individual has different needs, so we develop a personalized treatment plan for your goals. We may suggest a variety of solutions based on your body, the location of the slipped disc and the underlying factors that contribute to your symptoms.
Herniated Disc Treatment in Our Clinic
Herniated disc treatment at the Townsend Wellness Center focuses on the location of the slipped disc and the severity of your symptoms. We may use a combination of natural solutions after evaluating your needs and identifying potential factors that may impact your health.
In most cases, we suggest spinal decompression and spinal adjustments to address the pressure on your nerves. A herniated disc may put extra pressure on your nerves, which causes pain and discomfort. Decompression therapy helps reduce the pressure. We also suggest acupuncture and massage therapy when the cause of your slipped disc relates to an injury or muscle tension adds to the pressure on your nerves.
A herniated disc complicates your lifestyle, but you can address the underlying problem and heal your back pain. To learn more about treatments for herniated discs, call (573) 336-4221 today.
