Back pain caused by issues with the discs in the spine can greatly affect quality of life. However, not all disc problems are the same. Thankfully, we at Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic in Manhattan, KS, can provide natural care for both. Read on for more information about herniated and bulging discs.

What Are Spinal Discs?

Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, or bones, of the spine. They consist of a tougher outer layer called wrapped around a gel-like center. Discs absorb impact, maintaining flexibility. However, injury and degeneration can damage discs.

Herniated Discs

A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus ruptures through the outer fibrous layer. This causes the disc to bulge, placing pressure on spinal nerves. Nerve compression most often occurs in the lumbar spine, causing sciatica pain and numbness down the leg. With a herniation, the ruptured inner disc material can completely leak out. Herniations are most common in the lower back but can occur in the cervical and thoracic spine as well.

Bulging Discs

A bulging disc arises when the outer layer remains intact, but the inner nucleus expands. This causes the disc to protrude or bulge without rupturing open. Bulging discs can cause localized pain but can also compress nerves to cause radiating symptoms. Bulges may come and go with movement and may benefit from intervention.

Causes

Both herniations and bulges can result from disc degeneration over time. This causes the discs to weaken, dry out, and lose shock absorption. Activities like heavy lifting, twisting, poor posture, and injury can further stress the spine and discs. Genetics can play a role as well.

Get Spinal Decompression Treatment, Herniated Disc Treatment, and Chiropractic Care from a Chiropractor Near You

With personalized treatment plans, our chiropractors at Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic in Manhattan, KS, provide drug-free treatment for disc problems. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. Call us at (785) 776-7568 for spinal decompression treatment, herniated disc treatment, and chiropractic care from a chiropractor near you.

Back pain caused by issues with the discs in the spine can greatly affect quality of life. However, not all disc problems are the same. Thankfully, we at Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic in Manhattan, KS, can provide natural care for both. Read on for more information about herniated and bulging discs.

What Are Spinal Discs?

Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, or bones, of the spine. They consist of a tougher outer layer called wrapped around a gel-like center. Discs absorb impact, maintaining flexibility. However, injury and degeneration can damage discs.

Herniated Discs

A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus ruptures through the outer fibrous layer. This causes the disc to bulge, placing pressure on spinal nerves. Nerve compression most often occurs in the lumbar spine, causing sciatica pain and numbness down the leg. With a herniation, the ruptured inner disc material can completely leak out. Herniations are most common in the lower back but can occur in the cervical and thoracic spine as well.

Bulging Discs

A bulging disc arises when the outer layer remains intact, but the inner nucleus expands. This causes the disc to protrude or bulge without rupturing open. Bulging discs can cause localized pain but can also compress nerves to cause radiating symptoms. Bulges may come and go with movement and may benefit from intervention.

Causes

Both herniations and bulges can result from disc degeneration over time. This causes the discs to weaken, dry out, and lose shock absorption. Activities like heavy lifting, twisting, poor posture, and injury can further stress the spine and discs. Genetics can play a role as well.

Get Spinal Decompression Treatment, Herniated Disc Treatment, and Chiropractic Care from a Chiropractor Near You

With personalized treatment plans, our chiropractors at Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic in Manhattan, KS, provide drug-free treatment for disc problems. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. Call us at (785) 776-7568 for spinal decompression treatment, herniated disc treatment, and chiropractic care from a chiropractor near you.

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