FAQs About Herniated Discs
Herniated discs are a common problem among Americans, but they can be addressed through chiropractic care. Knowing the signs, risk factors, and other important information about herniated discs are important steps toward healing. That is our team at Cox Chiropractic Clinic in Charlottesville answers some of the common questions about this condition in the guide below.
What are herniated discs and what causes them?
Between your vertebrae are cushions called discs. These discs help keep your bones from rubbing against one another and absorb the shock your body sustains through movement. Sometimes, due to an injury, degenerative disc disease, aging, poor posture, and similar issues, undue pressure is put on the discs. This can cause the squishy part of the disc to protrude out of its proper place. In some cases, the disc will rupture.
What are the symptoms?
For some people, symptoms never present themselves, so it’s not unusual to be unaware of the issue. For others, symptoms include muscle weakness, muscle spasms, back and neck pain, or pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your extremities. Most symptoms are felt from the lower back all the way down to the foot.
How do I know it’s a slipped disc?
Symptoms of a herniated disc can overlap with other conditions. However, one of the main signs that you are dealing with a herniation is that the symptoms you do feel are only on one side of the body – not both.
Am I at risk of a herniated disc?
Aging is a common risk factor for herniated discs, as the discs begin to dry out, wear down, and lose elasticity. Other risk factors include working a physically demanding job, sitting for long periods of time, smoking, and being overweight.
Find Relief for Herniated Discs in Charlottesville, VA
If you think you might be suffering from a herniated disc, visiting a chiropractor is one of the most effective treatment options available. Schedule an appointment with Cox Chiropractic Clinic by calling our team today at (434) 293-6165 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.