Back pain is one of the most universal complaints, especially as we age
or are involved in unforeseen accidents. While people can suffer from
back pain for a variety of reasons, pain of the low, middle, and upper
back commonly results from issues with vertebral discs. In many cases,
pain can be attributed to vertebrae in the spine that are not in the proper position.
Vertebrae have the important job of absorbing shock in the in the spine
and allowing our bodies to move. With bulging discs, which usually occur
in the low back, a weakened disc can swell and extend outside of its normal
position. Misaligned vertebrae, or spinal subluxation, inherent to bulging
discs can cause pain on their own, and they can also lead to
disc herniation, which can cause more pain and additional complications. Bulging discs
may also impinge nerves near and around the spine, causing more severe pain.
Because bulging discs can lead to disc herniation and more serious concerns,
it is important to identify warning signs and any potential cause that
made have led to symptoms, which can include pain or tingling sensations
in the extremities, difficulties walking, radiating pain, and muscle spasms
and discomfort that may spread to the legs. Timely evaluation, diagnostic
assessment, and targeted treated can provide relief to patients in pain
and avert problems before they become more severe.
When assessing your pain and potential causes of injury, keep in mind that
bulging discus can develop in a few different ways, including:
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Trauma / Injury – Accidents or sudden impact trauma are more commonly associated
with herniated discs, rather than the progressive worsening associated
with bulging discs. However, serious collisions and injuries can cause
misalignment in the spine and long-term effects that can lead to bulging discs.
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Work-related injuries – Jobs that require an employee to perform repetitive tasks, such
as bending, lifting, standing, or driving, pose risks of developing bulging
discs. Lifting is especially concerning, as incorrect lifting or carrying
of objects can lead to injury and swelling of discs.
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Deterioration – Vertebrae and spinal discs are susceptible to the body’s
aging process, which means they can deteriorate over time due to natural
wear and tear. When additional factors, including strain, misalignment,
or injuries cause discs to endure additional change, they may begin to
bulge and protrude. Another condition associated with aging and a decline
in disc water content and structure, degenerative disc disease, can also
lead to bulging discs, pain, and complications. A lack of exercise and
smoking may accelerate degeneration of discs.
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Posture – Spine alignment can be disrupted by bad posture, especially over
time. Sitting, standing, and even sleeping in an incorrect manner can
create strain on the spine, back, and neck, which can lead to bulging
discs. Work on keeping you body alights when in a position for an extended
period of time.
At Decatur Pain & Rehab, our chiropractors work to understand how pain
and bulging discs may have been caused in a patient’s particular
case and specialize in locating, evaluating, and correcting misaligned
vertebrae using spinal adjustments. Spinal adjustments, or manipulation,
can pinpoint the location of your discomfort, whether it arose gradually
or suddenly, and provide targeted treatment. Spinal adjustments use low-force,
non-invasive techniques that can be monitored over time as a patient progresses.
By applying controlled forces to the targeted location, joints are pushed
beyond a normal range of motion, but within the range of motion for which
is designed. Popping or cracking noises are normal during a spinal adjustment.
Over time, treatment can provide significant relief and aid in the body
in achieving optimal alignment and health.
Aside from spinal adjustments, our team also utilizes comprehensive
diagnostic assessments to explore additional treatment options when necessary. These can include
non-invasive approaches, such as physical therapy, pain management, massage,
and lifestyle changes, or minimally invasive techniques should pain and
an underlying condition not respond to treatment.
Our Decatur chiropractors and support staff are committed to safe and effective
holistic healing tailored specifically to the individual needs of a patient.
We offer free consultations to first time patients, and provide a thorough
assessment to ensure that the underlying cause of your pain is being treated,
not just the symptoms. Our team has the experience and resources to treat
a variety of
conditions.
If you have questions about back pain, bulging discs, and how our team
can help you understand the cause of your discomfort and how we can treat
it, contact us by calling (404) 620-4020 or book an appointment online.
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