Herniated discs. We’ve all heard the term, and herniated and bulging discs are an extremely prevalent condition in chiropractic, physical therapy, and sports medical offices nationwide. Fortunately for patients experiencing pain or discomfort from these conditions, there are some effective non-surgical treatment options available to treat them safely, several of which are utilized in our DASHA practice.
However, before discussing an effective treatment option, I first wanted to give a brief overview of the condition itself, why it occurs, and the kinds of symptoms that may be a sign you are experiencing a herniated or bulging disc. The spine consists of vertebrae, or the interlocking bones that form the non-fused and arching structure of the spine. Nestled between each vertebrae, however, are pad-like cushions called discs. The Mayo Clinic aptly compares the structure of these discs to jelly doughnuts, meaning that they are essentially a harder outer surface filled with a gel-like fluid.
Sometimes, in the case of a bulging disc, the disc gets compressed or damaged to a point that it “bulges” out of its space between the vertebrae, many times pinching surrounding nerves and causing pain or numbness. Other times, a portion of the disc may rupture so that the gel-like fluid spills out into the surrounding area. This is a herniated disc.
So why does this occur? There are a variety of reasons; however, the primary two are age and injury. Normal use of the body over the years wears on overall structure, often resulting in weaker, more brittle muscles and bones as we age. The discs can degenerate as well with aging, losing fluid and becoming increasingly fragile so that even a subtle movement or rotation may cause them to rupture. Sometimes, a traumatic event such as a fall can cause a herniated or bulging disc. Additionally, straining to lift something heavy while bending over, rather than squatting down, can result in the condition, so always be careful to lift things correctly, protecting the spine.
At DASHA, I frequently utilize Spinal Decompression Therapy to treat herniated and bulging discs. This non-surgical treatment uses motorized traction to effectively stretch the spine in a slow, gentle way. As the spine is stretched, the vertebrae spread apart from the discs, taking pressure off any pinched nerves and creating negative space around the discs. A vacuum effect occurs in which water, oxygen, and other fluids filled with vital nutrients rush into the space around the discs, and after an ongoing regimen, they begin to heal and typically retract back into their proper place. I normally recommend a regimen of Spinal Decompression Therapy three times per week for 2-4 months until the herniated or bulging disc heals.
If you have experienced symptoms like pain in your arm or leg or numbness or tingling, you may be experiencing the result of a pinched nerve associated with a herniated or bulging disc. I’d suggest speaking to your doctor or chiropractor about your symptoms, and should either condition be diagnosed, Spinal Decompression Therapy may be a viable treatment option for you.
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About the Author: Shannon Russo-Pollack
Shannon Russo-Pollack (SHA) is the Founder of DASHA® and powerhouse behind the DASHA brand. SHA strategically works with medical, wellness and lifestyle professionals who have a like minded philosophy of total body health and well-being. Using her entrepreneur skills, healthy lifestyle and passion for fitness to inspire others.
