How Do I Know If I Have A Herniated Disc?
Are you noticing lower back pain and concerned that it might be a herniated disc? If so, you’re not alone. Approximately 80% of the population is believed to struggle with lower back pain at some point in their lifetime. Which is why Dr. Bobby Bilitsis at Prestige Health and Wellness recommends seeking medical care for lower back pain earlier than later. While it might seem like something to brush off for now, it’s best to address the problem before it becomes much more difficult to treat.
Herniated discs may feel like…
- Weakness
- Tingling
- Stinging sensation
- Neck or back pain
Below, we’ll explain what you should know about disc herniation and potential treatment options that can provide relief in Manhattan, NYC.
What is a Herniated Disc?
Occasionally referred to as a bulged, slipped, or ruptured disc, a herniated disc occurs when one of the discs in your spine leaks or tears.
Discs are small, round cushions that sit between the individual bones that make up the spine, known as the vertebrae. They have a thick outer ring of fibrous cartilage surrounding a gel-like substance in the center of the disc. When the outer layer cracks and part of the gel-like portion begins to push through the outer ring, this is known as a herniated disc.
Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (also known as the lumbar spine) and the neck (cervical spine).
To learn more, you can watch this video from the Mayo Clinic:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVMcDjRGXyI&t=89s
Herniated Disc Symptoms
The symptoms one experiences largely depend on the size of the herniation and the position of the disc. Surprisingly, some herniated discs don’t cause any symptoms at all, particularly those involving thoracic discs (the area between the upper and lower spine).
However, there are certain symptoms to look for based on where disc herniation occurred.
Herniated Disc Symptoms in the Lower Back
- Weakness in the leg and/or foot
- Sciatica
- Tingling sensation in the leg and/or foot
- Difficulty with movement, especially bending, lifting, and twisting
- A burning or stinging sensation that extends to the lower extremities
Herniated Disc Symptoms in the Neck
- Neck pain when bending your neck or turning your head
- Stiffness in the neck that reduces one’s range of motion
- Numbness or weakness that radiates to the hand, fingers, arm, and shoulder
- Electric-shock-like feeling down the neck
What Causes Disc Herniation?
Age is the most common cause of disc herniation, as the gel-like center weakens and becomes less hydrated from constant wear and tear.
The second most common cause is trauma, like getting into a car accident, falling, or improperly lifting a heavy object.
Other reasons might include:
- Poor Posture: Working long hours on a laptop with improper posture may increase your risk of disc herniation as you age.
- Certain Disorders: Having a connective tissue (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) or congenital disorder may lead to disc herniation.
- Excess Weight: Research shows that obesity increases the odds of disc herniation, as the extra weight stresses the spine.
Treating Herniated Discs in Manhattan
[Choose a photo of a Chiropractor treating herniated disc – use from our OWN PHOTO FOLDER]
Discs are like tiny shock absorbers, protecting the spine from forces caused by everyday activities like walking and jumping. Given its crucial role, getting treatment before it negatively impacts your quality of life is critical.
Some of the non-surgical treatment options for herniated discs include:
Physical Therapy
One of the first lines of treatment for a herniated disc is physical therapy, with research suggesting that it’s an excellent method for managing disabling pain. Our expert Manhattan physical therapists will create a customized treatment plan to help restore your health and well-being.
Chiropractic Care
Some studies show that individuals receiving early chiropractic care are less likely to need lumbar surgery. Chiropractic treatments, like spinal adjustments, help realign discs and relieve symptoms of pain and discomfort. The knowledgeable Manhattan chiropractors at Prestige Health and Wellness specialize in spine-related issues to improve overall wellness.
Acupuncture
Manhattan acupuncture services are another way to provide relief by harnessing the body’s energy pathways. One study found that acupuncture had a more favorable effect on lumbar disc herniation than some medications like ibuprofen.
Massage Therapy
Alleviating muscle tension and boosting blood circulation via Manhattan massage therapy is a promising non-surgical treatment for disc herniation. Case studies have discovered that some patients experience decreased pain and increased range of motion following massage therapy.
Contact Prestige Health and Wellness for Herniated Disc Relief
Many people live with neck or back pain hoping that it’ll just go away, but you don’t have to. In fact, you shouldn’t. If a herniated disc goes untreated, you’re at risk of nerve and soft tissue damage and significant chronic pain that’ll require more serious and costly treatment down the line.
Therefore, let the team of compassionate and experienced practitioners at Prestige Health and Wellness help you get on the path to healing.
If you have any questions, or if our treatment options are right for you, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 212-393-4673.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our locations in Manhattan NYC: