Spinal disc problems

For many decades, most back pain was believed to be caused by "slipped" or "torn" discs. We now know this is not the case. Disc problems constitute only a small portion of the causes of back pain and rarely require surgery.

Your discs are made up of the annulus fibrosus (the tough outer layer) and the nucleus pulposus (which contains a soft, gelatin-like center primarily made up of water). Discs act as a shock absorber and a shock distributor, and provide flexibility.

When cracks occur in the outer layer of the disc, the material inside of the disc can begin to push out. The most common disc problem is degenerative disc disease. This occurs when the nucleus loses water and small tears develop in it. Over time, the body forms bone spurs along the edges of the vertebrae, and the disc space narrows. A disc "bulge" results from slight tears in the outermost fibers of an annulus fibrosis. A disc "herniation," is a more significant injury, when the fibers of an annulus are completely or significantly torn and some of the nucleus leaks through. A herniation can be painful and may even cause nerve compression. In the most severe cases, the spinal cord can become compressed.

Common signs of disc problems include back or neck pain, radiating pain in the leg or arm, stiffness, and tenderness of the spine and spinal muscles. In some cases, disc problems can require emergency care. You should seek immediate care for the following symptoms: Loss of bowel or bladder control, inability to urinate and/or defecate, acute loss of feeling in both buttocks and/or both arms, inability to walk or use your arms, and fever along with your back pain.

Most disc problems are easily treated with conservative interventions. Chiropractic adjustments have been demonstrated to be a safe and effective tool, especially when combined with therapeutic exercise. Early in the course of an acute injury, your doctor of chiropractic will likely use several different physical modalities to control pain. In most circumstances, spine surgery and injections are not necessary in the management of disc problems.

Next week I will explain in greater detail the chiropractic treatment approach for disc injuries.

For more information, contact Dr. Wendy at haydenhealth@gmail.com.