Herniated Disc Treatment In Murfreesboro
Understanding Herniated Discs
Your spine functions like a stack of cushions, with intervertebral discs acting as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. These discs have a gel-like center encased by a tough outer layer called the annulus.
A herniated disc, also known as a bulged, slipped, or ruptured disc, occurs when the inner material pushes through a tear in the annulus, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. This condition is often linked to early stages of disc degeneration, a natural part of aging.
This blog delves into common causes, symptoms, and treatments for herniated discs, including chiropractic care in Murfreesboro.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for early intervention. Common indicators include:
- Persistent pain (often radiating to the legs or arms)
- Muscle weakness and spasms
- Abnormal reflexes
- Numbness or tingling, especially in the legs or feet
- Sensory changes, like “pins and needles”
These symptoms can vary based on the disc’s location, whether in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine.
Causes of Herniated Discs
Several factors can contribute to disc herniation, including:
- Aging and Disc Degeneration
- Gradual wear-and-tear weakens the annulus and reduces the disc’s cushioning ability.
- Injury or Trauma
- Sudden impacts, fractures, or accidents can cause immediate damage.
- Improper Lifting and Strain
- Heavy lifting, poor posture, or high-impact sports may lead to disc damage over time.
Temporary Pain Relief Tips
If you’re experiencing discomfort from a herniated disc, these tips can help:
- Perform light strengthening exercises when the pain subsides.
- Use hot and cold packs (5 minutes, 3 times daily) for inflammation.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can provide short-term relief.
- Maintain an active routine with gentle stretches and avoid prolonged bed rest.
- Monitor your posture to reduce pressure on the disc.
For a comprehensive recovery plan, consult healthcare professionals for tailored advice.
Chiropractic Care for Herniated Discs in Murfreesboro
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive solution for managing herniated discs. At Revolution Chiropractic Murfreesboro, we provide customized treatment plans, including:
1. Spinal Manipulations
Gentle adjustments reduce inflammation and realign the spine for better mobility and pain relief.
2. Spinal Decompression Therapy in Murfreesboro TN
This technique relieves pressure on the herniated disc, promoting its retraction and healing.
3. Massage Therapy
Massage relaxes surrounding muscles, improves blood flow, and complements spinal adjustments.
4. Cold Laser Therapy
Using cold laser therapy in Murfreesboro, we stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain safely and effectively.
5. Tailored Exercises
Strength-building exercises support the spine and help prevent recurring disc issues.
Additional Therapies for Herniated Discs
Massage Therapy
Chiropractors often include therapeutic massage in their treatment plans. This not only relaxes muscles around the affected area but also improves blood circulation, creating a healing-friendly environment. The hands-on approach of massage therapy works well with spinal adjustments, reducing discomfort, and promoting overall well-being.
Physical Therapy
Sometimes, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan involving physical therapy may be recommended. Physical therapists and chiropractors collaborate to address underlying issues contributing to the herniated disc. This can include exercises, stretching routines, and posture correction techniques to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and overall spinal stability.
Cold Laser Therapy
Chiropractors may use cold laser therapy, a non-invasive option, to speed up the healing process. Low-level laser light stimulates cellular activity, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain. It’s a safe and painless addition to a multifaceted approach for managing a herniated disc.
Nutritional Counseling
Chiropractors emphasize the importance of nutrition for overall health, including spine health. Nutritional counseling may be offered to guide patients toward an anti-inflammatory diet rich in nutrients that support tissue repair and reduce inflammation. A holistic approach to proper nutrition complements other treatments and contributes to long-term well-being.
Heat Therapy
Applying heat, whether through hot packs or infrared therapy, can be beneficial. It relaxes muscles, increases blood flow, and eases tension around the herniated disc. This therapy enhances the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments and provides additional relief to patients.
How Revolution Chiropractic Murfreesboro Can Help Treat Patients In Murfreesboro
Living with a herniated disc in Murfreesboro? Revolution Chiropractic Murfreesboro is here to help! We provide a holistic, personalized approach that includes:
- Massage Therapy
- Modern chiropractic spinal decompression in Murfreesboro TN
- Cutting-edge treatments like cold laser therapy
- Nutritional guidance for spinal health
Don’t let a herniated disc hold you back. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Your well-being is our priority at Your well-being is our priority at the Revolution Chiropractic Murfreesboro TN—where care meets innovation!—where care meets innovation!
Book An Appointment
Request an appointment online by calling us on (615) 867-7693
You can also use the online booking tool below
- (615) 867-7693
Do not ignore your Herniated Disc/Slipped Disc, it can become worse overtime. It’s important to consult with the doctor and understand the root cause of Herniated Disc/Slipped Disc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I consult a Chiropractor for herniated discs?
Chiropractors are safe for relieving herniated discs. Most disc issues improve with safe, non-invasive and effective therapies such as chiropractic. They focus not only on relieving pain but also on reconnecting the brain-body communication.
Is there a quick cure for a herniated disc?
Chiropractic adjustments, heat and cold therapy thrice a day, massages, and letting pain control your activities are usually enough to treat mild or moderate herniated disc pain.
Is walking possible even if I have a herniated disc?
You can walk as long as the injury is mild or moderate. Walking problems appear when a herniated disc compresses the spinal cord causing muscle weakness and atrophy. This is very serious and requires immediate professional care.
What should I avoid doing if I have a herniated disc?
You should avoid any activity that strains your back like:
- Cleaning the house and floors, washing the dishes
- Smoking
- Lying on your stomach
- Sitting on a chair or couch for prolonged periods of time
- Vacuuming
- Lifting boxes or heavy objects
How long will it take to recover from a herniated disc if I don’t have surgery?
Most people do not need surgery to get rid of the pain of a herniated disc. If you rest and follow our recommendations, it is probable that you will have recovered from the herniated disc in about four to eight weeks. Surgery is necessary when non-invasive treatments have failed to help, the pain continues and limits your life.
Is it safe and possible to go to the gym when I have a herniated disc?
You can go to the gym once the pain is under control and you are cleared by your chiropractor or doctor. Eventually, it is necessary to strengthen the back muscles to balance the spine and keep the joints moving. As long as the exercises are gradually increased and guided by a specialist, it is safe to go to the gym.