A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, is a condition that affects the spine. It occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc, which acts as a cushion between the vertebrae (the bones that make up the spine), pushes out through a tear or crack in the tough, outer layer of the disc. This can cause pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, leading to various symptoms and discomfort.
What Are the Most Common Herniated Disc Symptoms?
The Most Common Symptoms Of A Herniated Disc are
Pain in the affected area, which may be sharp or dull
Weakness in the muscles, which may cause difficulty lifting or holding objects
Muscle spasms or cramping
Difficulty sitting or standing for extended periods of time
Limited range of motion or flexibility
Shooting pain that radiates down the leg
Neck pain that radiates to the shoulder and arm
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Can a Chiropractor Diagnose Herniated Disc?
Yes, a Chiropractor, including a Naperville chiropractor in Illinois, can assess and identify potential signs and symptoms of a herniated disc. Our Naperville chiropractors are trained to evaluate musculoskeletal and spinal conditions and can recommend further medical evaluation, including imaging studies, to confirm a herniated disc diagnosis.
Can a Herniated Disc Cause Hip Pain?
Yes, a herniated disc in the lumbar (lower back) region can cause hip pain. The specific symptoms and severity can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniated disc and the nerve(s) affected. When a disc herniates, the gel-like material inside the disc can press on nearby nerves, including the sciatic nerve, which is a large nerve that runs down the back of the leg and into the hip area.
This compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve can lead to a condition called sciatica.
Sciatica is characterized by pain that typically starts in the lower back and radiates down one leg, often extending into the hip, buttock, and even reaching the foot. The pain can vary in intensity and may be sharp, burning, or radiating. It's common for people with sciatica to experience discomfort in the hip region as part of their symptoms.
In addition to hip pain, sciatica can also cause other symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the leg.
Chiropractic care is a non-surgical treatment option for herniated discs. Our Naperville chiropractors will develop a treatment plan for your herniated disc, which may use techniques such as; chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, stretching, and therapeutic exercises to provide pain relief and improve function. Chiropractic care and acupuncture are a safe and effective way to alleviate pain. Our chiropractors in Naperville, IL are ready to help you start feeling like yourself again.