Millions of people suffer from neck, shoulder, and arm pain. While there are numerous conditions that can result in this type of pain, a common cause is a herniated disc. Discs, which act as shock absorbers for the spine, are located in between each of the vertebrae in the spine. Each disc contains a tire-like outer band (called the annulus fibrosus) that surrounds a gel-like substance (called the nucleus pulposus). Chiropractic treatment for herniated discs can improve pain over the course of a few treatments.
A herniated disc occurs when the outer band of the disc breaks or cracks and the gel-like substance from the inside of the disc leaks out, placing pressure on the spinal canal or nerve roots. In addition, the nucleus releases a chemical that can cause irritation to the surrounding nerves causing inflammation and pain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a cervical herniated disc might include:
Dull or sharp pain in the neck or between the shoulder blades, which can intensify in certain positions or after certain movements. Pain that radiates down the arm to the hand or fingers (this is called radiculopathy). Numbness or tingling in the shoulder or arm.
How Do Discs Herniate?
Most cervical disc herniations occur as a result of sudden stress. This occurs during movements resulting in sudden flexion, extension, or twisting of the neck, such as during a fall or auto accident. Sometimes herniations occur gradually, over weeks or months. However, there are risk factors that can contribute to the chances of a disc herniation, including:
Aging: As we get older, discs gradually dry out, affecting their strength and resiliency. History of major or minor trauma to the cervical spine.
Lifestyle choices: Lack of regular exercise, not eating a well-balanced diet, and tobacco use substantially contribute to poor disc health. Poor posture, incorrect and/or repetitive lifting or twisting can place additional stress on the cervical spine.
Diagnosis:
Good treatment is always based on an accurate diagnosis. The comprehensive diagnostic process includes:
Medical history: We will talk to you about your symptoms, how severe they are, and what treatments you have already tried.
Physical examination: You will be carefully examined for limitations of movement, problems with balance, and pain. During this exam, we will also look for loss of reflexes in the extremities, muscle weakness, loss of sensation or other signs of spinal cord damage.
Diagnostic tests: Generally, doctors start with plain x-ray films, which enable them to rule out other problems such as infections. CT scans and MRIs are often used to give three-dimensional views of the lumbar spine and can help detect herniated discs.
Chiropractic Treatment:
Chiropractic treatment of cervical disc cases has been well-tolerated and is recommended for most types of herniations, and when combined with the physical therapy modalities in the office, the results are often experienced faster and with less complications than with drugs or surgery. In-office physical therapy modalities include electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound, ice or heat, as well as massage and axial-traction are all used to decrease pain and increase flexibility.
In conjunction with chiropractic treatments for herniated discs, we will educate patients about risk factors to avoid, healthy posture, good body mechanics, and suitable exercises. Quality education can lead to a healthier spine in the long run.
Dr. Russell D. Caram Chiropractic Physician 