Herniated Disc Treatment at Our Milwaukie Chiropractor

Your spine is made of several small bones called vertebrae.  In between each of these bones is a small cushion that is called a disc.  A herniated disc refers to a problem within one of these rubbery discs.  The composition of the disc consists of a squishy center, similar to jelly, with a harder exterior edge.  Sometimes referred to as a slipped disc or bulging disc, a herniated disc occurs when some of the soft jelly pushes through to the tougher exterior.  This can happen through a tear in the disc.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

While herniated discs can occur in the upper back and neck, it is most common to find herniated discs in the lower lumbar region of the spine.  Some common symptoms are:

  • Weakness – Often, the muscles that surround the area where the disc has herniated become weak.  You may notice this if you are stumbling more often or are having a hard time lifting or holding items.
  • Pain – Most commonly patients report having arm or leg pain.  If the disc in the lower back has herniated pain will be most intense in your calf, thigh, or buttocks.  Sometimes patients report feeling pain in the foot.  Pain through the shoulder and arm is most commonly associated with a herniated disc in the upper spine or neck area.  You may also experience shooting pain with sudden movements such as coughing and sneezing.
  • Tingling Sensation – Herniated discs can often affect the nerves surrounding the area.  This will take the form of numbness or tingling in the areas that are around the disc and injured nerve areas.

Chiropractic Treatment at Eastside Spine & Injury

The type of treatment we recommend depends entirely on the severity of the injury and the level of pain you are experiencing.  A chiropractor will do a full evaluation and determine the correct course of treatment.  Some treatment options may include adjustments to relieve pain, massage treatments to ease the surrounding muscle tissues or lifestyle changes that can help reduce pain.  Sometimes simply improving your running or walking form will help to eliminate pain from herniated discs.

Call Eastside Spine & Injury Today To Learn More!

If you are suffering from back pain and you think it may be related to a herniated disc feel free to call Eastside Spine & Injury to set up an appointment at (503) 654-7400.  We are located at 4370 SE King Rd #220, in Milwaukie, Oregon.  Our professional and caring team is eager to help our patients feel their absolute best.  Do you have experience with a herniated disc and have sought chiropractic care to ease the pain?  Share your experience!  A group discussion often helps to share knowledge and can lead to great solutions