Understanding Disc Injuries: What They Are and How We Can Help

Disc injuries are a common source of discomfort that can impact your ability to move, exercise, or enjoy everyday activities. At Active Life Chiropractic, we believe in empowering you with knowledge so you can make informed decisions about your health. Let’s dive into what disc injuries are, the different types, and how evidence-based care can help you get back to living your active life.

What Are Disc Injuries?

Think of the discs in your spine as jelly-filled cushions between the bones (vertebrae). These discs act like shock absorbers, helping you bend, twist, and move with ease. When a disc is injured, it can affect the way your spine functions and sometimes irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain or other symptoms (Cramer et al., 2022).

Types of Disc Injuries

1. Herniated Disc (Bulging Disc)
   Imagine squeezing a jelly donut too hard—some of the filling might start to leak out. In a herniated disc, the soft inner material pushes through the tough outer layer. This can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs depending on the level in which the herniation is present. (Benzel et al., 2020).

2. Degenerative Disc Disease
   Over time, wear and tear can cause discs to lose their hydration and flexibility, much like how a sponge dries out. This can result in reduced shock absorption and potential pain or stiffness (Brinjikji et al., 2022).

3. Annular Tears
   Small tears in the outer layer of the disc (the annulus) can sometimes irritate nerves, even if the inner material doesn’t leak out. These injuries may cause localized discomfort or radiating pain (Rajasekaran et al., 2021).

What Are the Symptoms?

Disc injuries can manifest differently based on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Localized Pain: Often in the neck, lower back, or middle back.

• Radiating Pain: Pain that travels down your arms or legs if a nerve is irritated.

• Tingling or Numbness: A sign that nerve function may be temporarily affected.

• Weakness: Sometimes, affected nerves may lead to muscle weakness in specific areas (Benzel et al., 2020).

How Do We Treat Disc Injuries at Active Life Chiropractic?

At Active Life Chiropractic, we use a holistic, evidence-based approach to treat disc injuries. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and help you move confidently again.

1. Personalized Chiropractic Care

Gentle, precise adjustments or mobilizations can improve spinal movement and relieve pressure on affected discs and nerves (Cramer et al., 2022).

2. Rehab Exercises

Movement is medicine! We design tailored exercise programs to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and improve mobility and stability. These exercises help reduce pain and allow you to become more resilient (Brinjikji et al., 2022).

3. Soft Tissue Therapy

Disc injuries often affect surrounding muscles. Techniques like instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and myofascial release can help reduce tension and improve blood flow to the area.

4. Education and Lifestyle Modifications

Understanding what causes your pain is key to recovery. We’ll guide you through ergonomic tips, posture changes, and movement strategies to keep your spine healthy long-term.

What Can You Do to Help Your Recovery?

Recovery from a disc injury is a journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. In addition to our treatments, you can take steps like:

• Staying Active: Movement keeps your spine healthy. Start with low-impact activities like walking or swimming.

• Hydration: Keeping your body hydrated helps maintain disc health.

• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can support your recovery.

Let’s Get You Moving Again

Disc injuries don’t have to sideline you from the activities you love. At Active Life Chiropractic, we’re passionate about helping you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.

Ready to take the first step? Schedule your consultation today and let’s create a plan tailored to your needs.

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References

Benzel, E. C., Ferrara, L. A., & Mummaneni, P. V. (2020). Herniated Lumbar Disc Disease. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.statpearls.com

Brinjikji, W., Diehn, F. E., Jarvik, J. G., Carr, C. M., Kallmes, D. F., Murad, M. H., & Luetmer, P. H. (2022). MRI findings of disc degeneration are more prevalent in adults with low back pain compared with asymptomatic controls: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Spine Journal, 20(4), 530–540.

Cramer, G. D., Darby, S. A., & Perle, S. M. (2022). Spinal manipulative therapy and the management of low back pain: Current perspectives and future directions. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 21(3), 345–359.

Rajasekaran, S., Yerramshetty, J. S., & Kanna, R. M. (2021). Pathomechanics of disc degeneration: Current understanding and its implications for therapeutic strategies. Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 39(5), 964–976.