People often believe that chiropractors are only used to treat back and spinal problems. However, this is a common miss conception. Not only do we at ProActive Health focus on back and spinal issues, but we also specialize in treating herniated disc pain through physical therapy.
In today’s article, we will look at what a herniated disc is and what steps Dr. Doug from ProActive Health takes in treating herniated discs.
What is a herniated disc?
Before we dive into what a herniated disc is, let’s first take a look at where your disc is located and how it works.
A disc acts as a spongy cushion between your spine's bones, allowing your spine to move easily and absorb any sudden shock. If one of these discs is injured, it can send pain throughout your body.
A herniated disc occurs when the softer inner portion of the disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. In rare cases, people may not experience any pain from a herniated disc and can go about their life. But as is the norm, if the disc is pushed through the crack in the tougher exterior casing of your spine, it will likely irritate nearby nerves sending pain through your back, legs, or arms.
How chiropractic care can help
Now some people choose to treat their herniated disc with medication, and while this can help ease the pain, it ignores addressing the root cause of the issue. Now, in rare circumstances, some people may need to undergo surgery to address their herniated disc. However, as is often the case, this issue can be addressed through chiropractic care.
First, Dr. Doug will assess your spine to locate the herniated disc and ask questions about your lifestyle and where the pain is occurring to understand the cause of the issue best.
During this time, Dr. Doug will see if your reflexes are normal, if you have experienced muscle loss, and if you have any numbness or tingling in your body.
Through focused chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Doug will gently use low force techniques to relieve the painful symptoms by manipulating your spine around and at the disc that is herniated. Over time and through routine chiropractic care and exercises tailored to your needs, you’ll begin to notice improvements in your spine and the affected area.
Visit us at ProActive Health today to “Align Your Spine, Realign Your Life!”
Ready to see a chiropractor, whether for the first time or as someone looking to visit a new chiropractic office? Dr. Doug Patterson at ProActive Health is the top choice in the Michiana area! He’ll help guide you in developing a plan to tackle a routine exercise plan, consuming the right foods, and targeting your goals with chiropractic care.
In 1993, Dr. Doug Patterson hurt his back and first sought the care of a Chiropractor. After this experience, he decided he wanted to help people himself by pursuing chiropractic. He is a 1997 graduate of the Life University College of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, and has been in practice for 25+ years. Since then, Dr. Doug has expanded his field of practice to include functional medicine, science-based nutrition, and now certified in Shockwave Therapy. Schedule a visit with Dr. Doug at ProActive Health today!