Disc Herniation

For people suffering from disc herniation, chiropractic care is an effective, non-surgical treatment option. A chiropractor can help you manage your pain and the other symptoms associated with a herniated disc.

Chiropractic Care and Herniated Discs

At your initial consultation, your chiropractor will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam and perform orthopedic and neurological examinations. During the consultation, your chiropractor is looking for several things, including whether the reflexes are intact and if there is loss of sensation or muscle weakness.

To treat the symptoms of a herniated disc, your chiropractor will examine your entire spine. Problems in one part of the spine can cause problems in other areas, so it is important to determine the exact location and nature of any injuries and problems that may be present.

Chiropractic Treatment for Herniated Discs

To treat disc herniation, your chiropractor will develop a comprehensive treatment plan that consists of spinal manipulation and other chiropractic techniques intended to eliminate your symptoms. Spinal manipulation is typically a large part of the treatment plan for herniated discs, but your exact plan will determined based upon the nature of your symptoms and your long-term goals.

Chiropractors commonly use the flexion-distraction technique to address the symptoms of herniated discs. This technique is performed on a specialized table that generally stretches or “distracts” the spine. This stretching allows your chiropractor to isolate the affected area and flex the spine using a pumping motion.

The flexion-distraction technique is generally painless and allows your chiropractor to move the disc away from the nerve to reduce inflammation in the in the nerve root. If you are prescribed this method of treatment, you will need a series of treatments, and your chiropractor may recommend at-home treatments, exercises and dietary changes.

If you are suffering from back pain and think that you may have a herniated disc, let the Longmont chiropractors at Left Hand Chiropractic Center help. To schedule a consultation, please call 303-651-7003.