At the Gehrig Family Chiropractic Center, Dr. Renee Gehrig and her team provide comprehensive chiropractic care for residents of the State College, PA area suffering from a herniated disc. In our clinic’s warm, friendly atmosphere, we treat patients of all ages and help relieve any pain and symptoms they may be experiencing.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc is a condition that can occur anywhere along the spine but is most common in the lower back area, where it causes lower back pain. The discs are the small cushions or pillows that are layered between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers for the spine.
A disc has two parts: a nucleus in the center and an annulus, the protective outer layer. A herniated disc occurs when a piece of the nucleus slips out of a tear in the annulus. A herniated disc may also be called a ruptured or slipped disc.
Causes of a Herniated Disc
Dr. Gehrig at the Gehrig Family Chiropractic Center serving State College, PA area would like you to know that a herniated disc may be caused by:
- Excessive strain or injury
- Disc degeneration due to aging
- Familial predisposition to herniated discs
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The most common symptom of a herniated disc is often lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) pain depending on where the disc ruptures.
If the herniated disc is in the lower back, it may be accompanied by sciatica. Sciatica presents as pain along the sciatic nerve from the buttock down into the back of the leg. There may also be numbness, tingling, and weakness in the leg and foot.
If the herniated disc is in the cervical area, you can expect pain in the neck and between the shoulder blades, with tingling or numbness in the arm.
The pain may be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how your body is positioned or how bad the rupture is. If you experience a loss of bladder or bowel control, we recommend you seek medical attention urgently.
Treatment for a Herniated Disc
After a thorough assessment, your chiropractor will determine whether you have a herniated disc and develop a unique treatment plan to provide pain relief and facilitate recovery. Chiropractic treatment for a herniated disc includes:
- Spinal adjustment and manipulation using particular techniques
- Therapeutic exercise to strengthen the spine
Treatment can be supported with anti-inflammatory medication, rest, and hot/cold packs.
Contact us!
If you think you are suffering from a herniated disc in the State College, PA area, look no further than Dr. Gehrig and her team at Gehrig Family Chiropractic Center. For appointments - call 814-231-0717.