Herniated discs can develop in any part of the spine, pressing on nerves and causing pain for the patient. Michael Maiorino, DC, of Structural Based Therapy offers diagnosis and treatment to patients with herniated discs in Alpharetta, Georgia, and the surrounding area. Patients who think they may have a herniated disc can call the office to make an appointment.
Herniated Disc Q & A
What is a herniated disc?
The intervertebral discs are structures that cushion the vertebrae in the spine during movement. A herniated disc occurs when one of these structures becomes damaged, causing the soft center of the disc to bulge outward.
Over time, the intervertebral discs are subjected to normal wear and tear, which makes herniation more likely. When the discs become weak, even a simple action can cause damage. In other cases, a herniated disc may develop in an otherwise young, healthy person because of trauma to the spine.
Some people are more likely to develop herniated discs than others. Some of the risk factors that may lead to a herniated disc include:
- Being overweight
- Engaging in repetitive actions that put pressure on the spine, such as bending or lifting
- Having degenerative disc disease
What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?
Many patients with herniated discs don’t experience any symptoms. However, if the disc puts pressure on the patient’s nerves, they may experience pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the affected area.
How can Structural Based Therapy help patients with herniated discs?
When a patient comes to Structural Based Therapy with the symptoms of a herniated disc, the doctors will begin by evaluating the patient thoroughly, asking about the patient’s history, and ordering imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. Once the doctor knows that a herniated disc exists, he will develop a treatment plan to address the patient’s symptoms.
Depending on the specifics of the patient’s condition, the treatment plan may include:
- Massage therapy
- Chiropractic manipulation
- Ultrasound therapy
- Kinesio taping
- Cold laser therapy
- Manual muscle therapy
- Electric muscle stimulation
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
In most cases, the doctor will recommend multiple therapies designed to improve the patient’s symptoms and prevent further damage to the spine.
Why is chiropractic care a good choice for patients with a herniated disc?
The standard medical treatments for patients with a herniated disc include surgery, prescription pain medications, and injections. All of these treatments pose a risk of serious side effects and complications to the patient. In addition, they aren’t always effective.
Studies have shown that the conservative treatment options available from Structural Based Therapy can improve the symptoms of herniated discs. Furthermore, these treatment options are safe and non-invasive.