A spinal disc refers to the structure that cushions the spine’s vertebrae. Its primary function is to allow flexible and pain-free motion when walking, running, jumping, and lifting. A disc can bulge, compress a nearby nerve, and create pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are non-invasive chiropractic treatment options to help reduce or eliminate the pain caused by a bulging disc. Our chiropractors at Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic provide chiropractic care for people in the Manhattan, KS area and can diagnose and treat many conditions, including bulging discs.
Symptoms of a Bulging Disc
When a spinal disc bulges, it protrudes outward beyond its normal boundaries. This may be the result of disc degeneration or injury. The disc’s outer layer stretches or weakens, which is what causes the disc to bulge. A bulging disc is often an early sign or a precursor to a herniated disc. The main difference is that the disc’s outer layer is still intact with a bulging disc. Some common symptoms associated with a bulging disc include:
- Pain in and around the neck and back
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that radiates down nerve pathways
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Changes to reflex responses
How Does a Herniated Disc Differ?
When you have a herniated disc, the spinal disc breaks through the weakened or torn outer layer of the disc, extruding into your spinal canal.
Bulging Disc Treatment Options
A chiropractor offers several non-invasive treatment options:
- Spinal Manipulation & Spinal Decompression: Chiropractors often perform spinal decompression treatment and manual manipulation techniques or adjustments to the spine that help realign the vertebrae and reduce pressure on nearby nerves that may arise from disc degeneration. These adjustments also help optimize your nervous system’s functioning.
- Electrical Stimulation Therapy: E-stim has the potential to alleviate pain and relax affected muscles.
- Soft Tissue Manipulation: Chiropractors typically provide soft tissue therapies, such as massage therapy, to help promote muscle relaxation in the areas surrounding the bulging disc.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Exercise can help strengthen the supportive muscles and improve overall posture. This can help manage symptoms and prevent future occurrences.
- Lifestyle/Ergonomic/Posture Advice: Chiropractors are often well-versed in various lifestyle modifications that can help improve existing pain. These may include proper ergonomics, proper lifting techniques, nutritional support, and more.
Contact Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic
Do you or someone you know in the greater Manhattan, KS area need relief from the symptoms of a bulging disc? Are you looking for a chiropractor near you? Contact a member of Sorell-Iversen Chiropractic Clinic’s team at 785-776-7568 or reach out to us to schedule a consultation for the care and pain relief solutions you need and deserve today.