If you're suffering from a disc injury, you know how debilitating the pain can be. This overview from Core Chiropractic and Wellness in Pella will explain what disc injuries are and how chiropractic care can help.

What is a Disc Injury?

Discs are rubbery cushions between the vertebrae that absorb shock and allow flexibility. A disc injury occurs when a disc tears, ruptures, or degenerates due to injury or wear and tear.

Common disc injuries include: 

• Bulging disc – The outer wall weakens, and the disc bulges out. 
• Herniated disc – The inner gel protrudes through tears in the outer wall. 
• Degenerative disc disease – Discs deteriorate from aging and lose their cushioning ability. 

Injured discs can cause severe back pain or sciatica if they irritate spinal nerves. Symptoms may include sharp back pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.

Causes of Disc Injuries

Disc injuries can result from:

• Improper lifting, bending, or twisting 
• Sports injuries or falls 
• Repetitive stress on the back 
• Normal aging and wear and tear 

People with physically demanding jobs or preexisting back problems are at higher risk. Additionally, obesity, smoking, and poor posture also increase the risk of disc injuries.

How Chiropractic Helps Disc Injuries

Chiropractic care is effective for treating disc problems through: 

• Spinal adjustments to improve mobility and reduce nerve irritation 
• Manual therapies to relax surrounding muscle spasms 
• Advice on proper lifting, bending, and posture techniques 
• Custom exercises to strengthen the back and core 
• Traction techniques to relieve pressure off discs 
• Physiotherapy modalities like ultrasound, ice, or electrical stimulation 

Chiropractors take a whole-body approach to identify underlying imbalances contributing to disc injuries. Ongoing chiropractic care can help prevent disc degeneration and future episodes of back pain.

What to Expect from a Chiropractor

Your chiropractor will conduct a thorough evaluation, including neurological tests, range of motion assessments, and imaging like X-rays if needed. They will explain your diagnosis and customize a treatment plan. Treatments may include spinal adjustments, massage therapy, physiotherapy, and restorative exercises. Your chiropractor will also provide tips for protecting your back through proper ergonomics and lifestyle changes.

Contact Our Chiropractor Near You

With individualized chiropractic care, most disc injuries respond very well. Our team at Core Chiropractic and Wellness serves patients in Pella, IA. Contact us today to start getting relief from your disc injury.