What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, or as it is more commonly known, a slipped disc, occurs when the structural integrity of the spine is compromised, allowing the fluid-filled pad between individual vertebrae to bulge or even break free. A herniated disc can result in a whole host of secondary conditions like sciatica and lower back pain.
Signs and Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
A herniated disc usually results from injury, trauma, or repetitive movements (repeated twisting) that involve the spine. A herniated disc isn’t always obvious, so patients who suspect they might be suffering from a herniated disc can also look out for symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the extremities, weakness of the muscles, headaches, awkward gait, shooting or sharp pain in the lower leg or arm that worsens when you sneeze, cough, or sit in a certain position, and a decline in fine motor abilities.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects a Herniated Disc
While you can experience disc herniation at any point in the spine, it can be particularly concerning if it’s occurring in the upper cervical spine. The bulging of the disc directly into the spinal cord and spinal nerves can quickly lead to spinal cord compression. This alone is enough to cause serious pain to the back and/or neck but, left unchecked, this kind of spinal compression can result in long-term consequences for regular nerve function. When electrical signals controlling fine motor abilities are impeded along the spinal cord, it can lead to a cascade of other issues with the central nervous system.
How Our Upper Cervical Treatment for a Herniated Disc Works
If you’re suffering from a herniated disc, our specialist Dr. Gordon Elder, is an expert in the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique. Unlike conventional chiropractic treatment, this technique focuses specifically on restoring the upper cervical spine, using targeted and precise spinal correction techniques.
Dr. Elder’s treatment involves a two-step system. Firstly, patients will attend a 25–30-minute consultation to establish their history and determine whether a vertebral misalignment has caused their herniated disc. Following this, Dr. Elder will deliver an extensive report and you’ll also have the opportunity to ask Dr. Elder any questions about your condition. The diagnostic process will typically involve the use of advanced 3-D imaging techniques to pinpoint the specific location of any misalignments.
In terms of treatment, Dr. Elder will use the Blair chiropractic adjustment techniques to coax the misaligned vertebrae back into their natural position, restoring regular nerve flow and kickstarting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Following your first treatment, patients do need to return for regular check-ups (for at least 3-5 months) to ensure the adjustment has set. Most patients average between 10 and 15 appointments with Dr. Elder to achieve long-lasting/permanent results.
If a herniated disc is preventing you from doing the things you love, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Elder about the health of your upper cervical spine. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Elder also services Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.