WHAT IS A DISC HERNIATION?

A disc herniation is an injury to the outer layer of the disc. The injury allows the inner disc material, the nucleus pulposus, to bulge or herniate from the outside layer. Disc material can compress and irritate the nearby nerve roots. This can cause symptoms like local neck or back pain and even pain, burning, numbness and tingling, and weakness into the arms and legs.

HOW DO DISC HERNIATIONS HAPPEN?

Disc herniations can occur with or without symptoms. They can be caused by natural age-related changes, trauma, bend/twist/lift, or excessive loads at end ranges of movement. Oftentimes, the patient can recall a specific movement/lift that led to the injury.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?

Disc herniations can be very painful and produce a variety of symptoms. It is important to be checked out by a professional to assess for any serious red flag symptoms. A recent study with nearly 280,000 disc herniation patients showed that 97% of percent of the patients were successfully managed with non-surgical care like chiropractic and physical therapy. We have solutions to help you! We can provide pain relief and coach you through the rehab process to return to your activities.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Temporarily reduce any activity that increases your pain. Stay mobile and begin to build strength working within the guidelines set forth by your doctor. Stay positive and understand that you will heal and be better with time and guided care to promote a faster recovery.

Your Elkhorn Chiropractor and Elkhorn Physical Therapist are trained experts in managing disc herniations. If you or someone you know is suffering from something like this, give us a call at 402-932-5394 and we would be happy to help!