A slipped disc, more commonly referred to as a herniated disc, is among the more common phenomena that take place along the spine. It occurs when any of a number of disks that cushion the vertebra in the spine slips out of its normal position or ruptures, thereby putting pressure on surrounding nerves. Symptoms include pain, tingling, and numbness, leading eventually to weakness.
At FWC, Family Wellness Centre, we offer extended care and efficient treatments for the symptoms of a slipped disc that help you get mobile and enjoy an improved quality of life. In this article, we will discuss what major symptoms the slipped disc may bring along, what it feels like, and present seven effective treatments to give relief.
What Does a Slipped Disc Feel Like?
A slipped disc, based on where it has occurred, can create different sensations. The most common symptoms include:
- Pain: The pain associated with a herniated disc is often sharp, shooting, or dull and usually originates from the lower back, neck, or between the shoulder blades. Sometimes, this pain radiates down the legs or arms, following the path of the affected nerve.
- Numbness and Tingling: You may feel numbness or tingling sensations in the limbs, which is often referred to as “pins and needles”. This usually happens because the nerves are compressed by the herniated disc.
- Weakness: It can render the concerned limb weak, restricting movement and object lifting.
- Muscle Spasms: The muscles surrounding the slipped disc may go in spasms to further heighten pain and discomfort.
- Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: A severe slipped disc may compress nerves that regulate the action of the bladder or bowel and creates a medical emergency that needs immediate attention.
Slipped Disc Symptoms
Though the symptoms can be different, depending on the severity and position of your slipped disc, the common symptoms include:
- Localised pain: It may create localised pain in the lower back or neck.
- Sciatica: It may press against the sciatic nerve, which gives rise to the radiating pain down the leg often referred to as sciatica. Pain on bending and lifting: Most of the people experiencing a slipped disc have increased pain related to bent, twisted movements, or lifting heavy weights. Stiffness: As there is painful movement, thus which restricts it, and hence stiffness in the back and neck is felt.
- Pain worsening at night : A herniated disc may be more painful when lying down; this may impede sleeping.
If any of these symptoms persist, it is important to consult a medical expert for advice on the proper course of action. Here at FWC, we diagnose and offer treatment for slipped discs with a variety of therapeutic approaches.
Slipped Disc X-Ray: How It Helps Diagnose The Condition
While the actual herniation will not be visible with an X-ray, a diagnosis of a slipped disc can initially be done with the use of an X-ray. An X-ray can help in identifying signs of degeneration or other issues related to the spine that would possibly further result in the conditions for slipped discs. Further imaging tests such as an MRI will provide a clear view of the disc itself and the nerves surrounding it.
Diagnosis at FWC comes with the state-of-the-art diagnostic services that ensure very accurate diagnosis and treatment of slipped discs. A combination of advanced imaging techniques with clinical expertise creates a treatment plan for every patient’s individual needs.
7 Effective Treatments for Slipped Disc
1- Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is one of the best treatments for this condition. Chiropractic professionals emphasize the importance of the spine and use manipulative and manual adjustments to alleviate stress on the nerve produced by the herniated disc. These techniques help to realign the spine, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Chiropractic care may be particularly helpful in managing symptoms associated with a slipped disc and in the prevention of further injury.
Our team of chiropractors, at FWC, is focused on individual adjustments to help alleviate symptoms of a slipped disc while keeping your spine healthy. Chiropractic Care offers both immediate pain relief and long-term benefits.
2- Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is another efficient form of treatment for slipped discs. The physical therapist will involve you in a set of exercises that stabilize the muscles that support your spine, increase flexibility, and help you get back to your normal movement. Some exercises can relieve nerve compression, reduce pain, and improve your posture.
3- Pain Management Techniques
Pain from a herniated disc may be severe enough to require pain management medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate some of this pain. In serious cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger drugs or recommend cortisone injections to target inflamed areas surrounding your injured disc.
4- Application of Heat and Cold
Heat and cold packs may be used to treat inflammation and pain caused by a slipped disc. Cold therapy may help reduce swelling, especially in the first 48 hours following the injury, whereas heat therapy works by increasing blood flow and relaxing the muscles around the disc.
5- Lifestyle Modifications
A few simple lifestyle changes can dramatically improve the symptoms management of slipped disc. They include good posture, avoidance of heavy lifting, and workplace ergonomics. The regular exercises such as walking and swimming help in reinforcing the muscles surrounding your spine.
6- Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression therapy is a pain-free and non-invasive therapy that relieves the pressure of the spinal discs. This is made possible with the use of a motorised traction table that gently stretches the spine, allowing negative pressure to soothe the pain and promote the healing of the affected area. In fact, this could be one of the good options for those with slipped discs who are apprehensive about having surgery.
7- Surgical Treatment
It can be corrected by surgery for severe cases unrelieved by conservative treatments. The purpose of surgery is to eliminate the part of the disc that impinges on the nerve and thereby resolves pain and restores function. Surgical options include discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion. Surgery, however, is considered the last resort when all other treatments have been tried.
Conclusion
A slipped disc can cause a great deal of discomfort and can truly limit everyday activities, but relief with the right treatments is possible. From chiropractic care to physical therapy and many other slipped disc symptom management methods aimed at restoring health to the spine, FWC offers multiple options for treating slipped discs. If you are experiencing any pain, numbness, or weakness associated with it, don’t wait. Set up an appointment with a professional today and take a step in the right direction toward recovery and living a pain-free life. Here at FWC, we are dedicated to providing you with nothing but the best so you can enjoy life to the fullest.
For more information or to set up an appointment, reach out to FWC today. Our experts are here with you every step of the way.
