Disc Herniation

Disc herniation—also referred to as a ruptured or prolapsed disc—is a spinal condition that occurs when the outer fibrous layer of an intervertebral disc weakens or tears, allowing the softer inner material to bulge or extend outward. This process is often the progression of a previously bulging or protruded disc. In some cases, the outer layer remains intact but stretches under pressure, allowing the disc to expand beyond its normal boundaries.

Disc herniation commonly develops as part of the natural age-related degeneration of spinal tissues. Over time, wear and tear can reduce the disc’s ability to absorb stress, leading to inflammation and irritation of nearby nerve roots. When nerves are affected, individuals may experience significant pain, weakness, or neurological symptoms.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Disc Herniation

The signs and symptoms of disc herniation vary depending on the location of the affected disc and the structures involved. Some individuals may experience little to no discomfort if the herniation does not place pressure on surrounding nerves. Others may develop significant neck or lower back pain that radiates into other areas of the body, such as the arms or legs, depending on which nerve roots are irritated.

Many disc herniations are not immediately identified, as symptoms may initially present as pain in the hips, thighs, knees, or feet. Additional symptoms may include numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or changes in reflexes. In some cases, a herniated disc may cause minimal or no symptoms if the displaced material does not impact nearby tissues.

Herniations in the lumbar spine can produce pain that radiates into the groin or legs and, in rare cases, may affect bowel or bladder function. These symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.

 

Causes of Disc Herniation

Degenerative changes within the intervertebral discs are considered the most common cause of disc herniation. As discs age, the inner nucleus pulposus can lose elasticity and hydration, while the outer annulus fibrosus becomes weaker. This reduces the disc’s ability to withstand normal mechanical loads. When excessive stress is placed on the disc, small tears may form in the outer layer, allowing the inner material to escape and create a herniation.

Disc herniation may also develop gradually due to repetitive stress from prolonged sitting, driving, or occupations that place continuous strain on the spine. In some cases, a sudden movement—such as bending, lifting, or a fall—may trigger symptoms when an already weakened disc is unable to tolerate the increased pressure.

When bending or sitting, internal disc pressure increases, particularly along the back portion of the disc. Over time, this pressure can force the inner disc material through the weakened outer layer and into the spinal canal, where it may compress spinal nerves and produce pain, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.

Genetic factors have also been shown to play a role in disc degeneration and herniation, with certain inherited traits influencing disc structure and resilience.

 

Diagnosis of Disc Herniation

Disc herniation is typically diagnosed through a combination of a thorough medical history, physical examination, and assessment of symptoms. In some cases, additional diagnostic testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

Most cases of disc herniation improve without surgical intervention. Initial management often focuses on reducing inflammation and discomfort to allow individuals to resume movement and daily activities. While medications may provide short-term relief, long-term use can carry risks and should be carefully monitored.

In situations where conservative approaches do not provide sufficient improvement, additional interventions may be considered. Surgery is generally reserved for cases involving persistent pain, progressive weakness, or significant neurological complications, such as bowel or bladder dysfunction.

 

"Fifteen years ago, I suffered a herniated disc in my lower back. I spent three months off work lying flat on my back. I was able to tolerate the pain so the surgeon did not want to operate. I did improve some on my own over a long period of time. I continued going to the doctor with the same complaints: pain that shot down my leg and severe muscle spasms that left me unable to work. The doctor eventually told me not to come back until I couldn't move or walk.

Since then, l have babied my back and have moved around gingerly so as to avoid further injury. It has affected my entire life including the work I can and cannot do, my play, and my exercise. I work in retail and stand all day. When I got home after work, I was in such pain I lived on high doses of ibuprofen. The pain was terrible and both hips hurt so badly that I couldn't sleep on either side. The muscle spasms multiplied, moving into my buttocks as well. I only found relief from the pain by lying flat on my back, and I woke up each morning tired and still from sleeping in the same position all night long. Many nights I couldn't sleep at all.

A friend of mine had been successfully treated for sciatica by Dr. Schneider and recommended that I see him. She felt certain he could help me. With reluctance, I kept the appointment she made for me. On my first visit, he found me to be so out of alignment that one leg was almost 2 inches shorter than the other; it was the same in my arms. He treated me with the Activator only - no cracking. I would describe the method as a pressure treatment, for lack of more technical terms.

My arms and legs are now even in length and I am much better able to rest at night. I am still a work in progress, but I feel better with each treatment. I feel certain that without the treatments I wouldn't have been able to continue working. My whole quality of life is much improved - amazingly so, in fact. I have Dr. Schneider to thank for that."

~J. Deger

 

Chiropractic Care for Disc Herniation

Chiropractic care focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting the body’s natural healing process. This approach may be particularly valuable before considering more invasive options such as injections or surgery.

Disc herniation in the thoracic spine is relatively uncommon due to the stability provided by the rib cage. When it does occur, it can be complex to address surgically, as access to the affected disc may require extensive procedures. For this reason, conservative care is often recommended initially.

The goal of chiropractic care is to decrease stress on the affected spinal segments, restore proper motion, and reduce irritation to surrounding tissues, helping individuals regain function while the body heals over time.