Bulging discs are commonly linked to aging and can lead to pain and reduced mobility. Athletes and those with physically demanding jobs are more susceptible, and tobacco smoking can worsen spinal disc health. Chiropractic care is a proven and effective treatment for bulging discs and associated pain. The care can provide comfort and improve mobility.
What Is A Bulging Disc?
A bulging disc is a condition where a spinal disc extends beyond its usual position. This is often associated with the natural aging process. The severity of this condition depends on whether the disc extends into the spinal canal. It can result in the narrowing of the canal and subsequently cause pain.
Bulging discs are more common than herniated discs and typically are a result of the gradual wear and tear that discs undergo as you age. Discs have a robust outer layer of cartilage and a softer inner cartilage. As you age, this inner layer can become smaller, leading to compression and protrusion of the disc.
In such cases, the bulging disc may come into contact with a nerve, causing pain and discomfort. This condition frequently affects the lower lumbar spine and can also worsen the risk of developing a herniated disc. When this issue happens, it would require medical treatment.
Symptoms Of Bulging Discs
Pressure on a nerve from a bulging disc can result in numbness or reduced strength in the affected area. You may also experience tingling or a burning sensation that extends to areas like the feet, legs, back, hands and arms. Additionally, muscle spasms and cramps are symptoms of disc-related issues. Here are key symptoms of bulging discs you should know…
- Pain: Bulging discs commonly lead to pain localized in the affected area or radiating to other regions. This discomfort can intensify with particular movements or postures, complicating routine activities.
- Numbness or tingling: When a nerve is compressed by a bulging disc, it can lead to periodic or constant numbness and tingling sensations in your limbs. The severity of these sensations varies depending on the extent of the condition.
- Muscle weakness: Compression of nerves can result in muscle weakness, making it difficult for you to carry out everyday tasks and maintain balance. This may create the risk of falls or injuries.
- Loss of mobility: As bulging discs progress, you might experience a limited range of motion in the affected area. This decreased mobility can gradually affect your ability to move with ease and comfort.
Bulging Discs And Chiropractic Care
Suffering from a bulging disc can result in severe pain. Nevertheless, seeking chiropractic care can help prevent further spinal damage. Chiropractors make use of gentle, low-force techniques designed to alleviate the pressure on nerve roots caused by disc protrusion. These specialists also use various spinal adjustment methods to provide relief from the discomfort associated with bulging discs. Some common techniques used by chiropractors to treat bulging discs include…
1. Spinal Decompression
Chiropractors make use of spinal decompression to treat bulging discs. Spinal decompression is a non-surgical approach which is effective in treating this condition. In this treatment, a traction table is used to gently stretch the spine. This table provides relief from leg or back pain.
Also, this method generates a pressure environment that encourages the bulging disc to move. It also promotes the circulation of nutrients, oxygen and fluids essential for faster disc healing. This therapy is not limited to disc protrusions because it can benefit patients with facet joint syndrome, degenerative disc disease, neck pain and nerve injuries, too.
2. Flexion Distraction Treatment
Flexion distraction treatment aims to alleviate nerve pressure resulting from a bulging disc. Primarily, it is administered to enhance spinal mobility and alleviate symptoms like neck, arm, leg or lower back pain. Additionally, it is beneficial for conditions such as musculoskeletal strains, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis and sciatica.
During the session, you will be asked to recline on a specialized table that gently stretches your spine. The chiropractor will then use precise maneuvers to reposition the bulging disc away from the nerves. These controlled movements restore alignment and enhance the circulation of vital fluids.
3. Pelvic Blocking Technique
This approach consists of customized cushioned wedges that are positioned beneath both sides of your pelvis. The objective is to facilitate the natural realignment of the bulging disc, relieving the pressure on the impacted spinal nerve.
This chiropractic method is effective in addressing disc-related issues as well as in treating back discomfort, hip pain and other bodily aches. By providing gentle support and promoting spinal adjustments, the pelvic blocking technique offers a holistic solution for enhancing musculoskeletal health and reducing the painful conditions caused by a bulging disc.
4. Massage Therapy
There are many massage techniques and chiropractors can use any of them to alleviate muscle tightness caused by compressed nerves within the spinal column. One approach involves performing a focused, deep-tissue massage on the tissues surrounding the affected nerve. This therapeutic massage promotes improved circulation and reduces muscle spasms and tension.
Moreover, it plays a vital role in restoring flexibility and enhancing a person’s range of motion. By addressing muscular discomfort related to nerve compression, chiropractors offer a comprehensive approach to spinal health. Generally, this approach contributes to pain relief and improved mobility.
Summary:
Chiropractic care is a holistic and non-invasive approach to addressing the issues of bulging discs. Through various techniques such as spinal adjustments, decompression therapy and targeted massage, chiropractors can provide relief from pain and enhance mobility. This treatment option offers comfort to people seeking to regain their quality of life.
