Herniated Disc

The human spinal column is made out of 23 vertebrae bones and 23 discs between these bones. Together they function as shock absorbers of our body. A spinal disc has a soft, jellylike center (nucleus) surrounded by a tougher, rubbery exterior (annulus). A herniated disc occurs when some of the nuclei push out through a tear in the annulus which is also called a slipped disc. When herniated or slipped disc compress on the spinal nerve, it can result in pain, numbness and/or weakness in the hand or foot.

Disc herniation is most often the result of a gradual, aging-related wear-and-tear called disc degeneration. As people age, the discs become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist. However, any trauma like car accidents, abrupt sudden motion bending forward and rotation movement can also cause the disc to slip out. Prolonged sitting with weak posture muscles can make our spinal column be vulnerable for a herniated disc.

Factors that can increase the risk of a herniated disc include:

• Weight - Excess body weight causes extra stress on the disc in the lower back
• Occupation - People with physically demanding jobs have a greater risk of back problems. Repetitive lifting, pulling, pushing, bending sideways and twisting can also increase the risk of a herniated disk
• Genetics - Some people inherit a predisposition to developing a herniated disk
• Prolong sitting position - Being seated for long periods of time in the office or in the car can put pressure on the spine

Treatment

Early diagnosis of herniated disc with MRI study with conservative treatment can have a great prognosis and avoid unnecessary back surgery.

• Nonsurgical decompression
• Flexion-distraction chiropractic manipulation
• Physiotherapy
• Strengthening & conditioning exercise