If back pain is an issue, you are not alone. Most people will go through some back pain in their life, whether it be from a tough day of exercise or after lifting a large object. Most of the time, when a muscle is strained, the pain will go away with a couple of days of rest. However, if your pain is not from a muscular issue, a more significant problem may exist. In many cases, a spinal disc injury has occurred, but don't worry because our team at Move Well Health can help.
This type of injury is not rare by any means. It can be excruciating, but your chiropractor has helped patients overcome the injury many times and can help you understand what is going on.
THE SPINAL DISC
Between each vertebra is a cushion which is known as intervertebral disc. The entire disc is encapsulated by a cartilage structure with a ligamentous wall and a soft gelatin-like middle. Their purpose is to act as a shock absorber that prevents the vertebrae from sliding together. Intervertebral discs play a role in the spine's flexibility and contribute to a strong spine.
A bulging disc occurs when the gelatinous centre of the disc starts to push on the outer wall but has not torn the outer wall yet. Some studies suggest that 60% of adults live with multiple protruding discs. Much of this population experiences no pain. However, when the gel prods through the wall, the disc is no longer bulging but is known as herniated. This herniation can cause pain due to nerve irritation. Numbness and inflammation are also common when a disc is herniated.
When the disc completely breaks through the wall, it is called a disc extrusion and a severe condition that creates extreme back pain that can immobilize the spine.
Call our Move Well Health team to take your first step in getting a better life and relieving your back pain.