The spine is a very complex structure that provides support for the entire body. There are 24 jointed vertebrae and nine fused bones that make up the spine, and all of the jointed pieces have the ability to shift or slip out of place. These bones are cushioned with cartilage discs to help the spine bend and twist without coming apart. However, these little discs are vulnerable to damage from the bones and muscles around them, including the spine vertebrae. You usually need professional care to heal with a disc is damaged.
Spinal disc herniation occurs when one of many causes leads to a tear in the fibers that make a ring around the outside of each disc. Inside this fibrous exterior is a softer interior that cushions the force of walking, running, and standing. This core can be pushed outside through the tear, much like a hernia pressing through a tear in the abdomen muscle wall. The nerves along the inside and outside of the spine often react very strongly to the increased pressure and reduced support of a damaged disc.
It is possible to have a major herniated disc and never experience a single symptom. If the disc is located away from nerve roots and has no contact with muscles or tendons, you could go through life without noticing it. However, it can also lead to some of the most severe neck and back pain we treat. Most patients with bulging discs experience:
Some people are born with disc deformities and herniation, while others are surprised to learn about the problem and can’t remember the exact cause. Nearly any form of damage to the spine could rupture or tear a spinal disc. A few of the most common causes include:
There are numerous risk factors that have been linked to herniated disc issues. While some simply can’t be changed, others are lifestyle choices. Spinal damage risks include:
For severe cases, it may be impossible to relieve the pain without surgery to repair this disc. However, this shouldn’t be your first choice due to the risks. It is possible to only aggravate the symptoms further due to nerve damage caused during the repair. Start with less invasive options like:
If you are tired of periodic numbness or chronic pain that just won’t leave you alone, stop by for a consultation to determine if you have a herniated disc. Many patients who come to us for sciatica treatment are shocked to find that their hip or foot pain is linked to damage relatively high on the spine. We understand all of the nerves that weave their way in and out of the spinal column, so we can help pinpoint the problem and treat it promptly for amazing results. To heal any spine damage in the Westminister area, contact us today.
When you arrive for your first visit, a member of Mile High Spine & Pain Center team will spend time with you collecting your patient history. This information will help your Mile High Spine & Pain Center Team know how significant your bulging or herniated disc problem is and how best to help you. We will create a personalized treatment plan for you to help you solve your issues as quickly as possible and get you out of pain.
Feel free to look at our testimonials page to see what others have said about Mile High Spine & Pain Center. We are proud to be helping people address their pain and look forward to helping you!
If you are suffering from bulging or herniated disc, the team at Mile High Spine & Pain Center are ready to help. Mile High Spine & Pain Center provides specialized treatment plans for bulging or herniated disc to patients in the Westminster and Broomfield area and can help you understand where your symptoms are coming from and what it will take to improve.
Call (720) 507-0080 today to schedule your free consultation!