- The intervertebral disc acts as the shock absorber between the vertebra above and below. When they are hydrated and healthy, they keep the spine flexible. Think about the disc as a jelly filled doughnut with soft, squishy interior and tough, fibrous exterior. When the nucleus pulposus (jelly) begins to push on the annulus fibrosus (outer part of the doughnut), it can herniate/slip/protrude/bulge through some of those outer layers.
- When that occurs, the pressure inside the disc increases greatly. This can often cause significant, debilitating pain. Depending on the size of the herniation or bulge, the disc can encroach upon the nearby nerve root which would likely cause radiculopathy like symptoms such as sciatica (radiating pain). Some patients on the other hand can have a herniated or bulging disc but to a lesser degree.
- Diagnostic imaging might reveal a disc that is in the process of degenerating on its way to a herniation or rupture. While a patient might not feel any symptom at the current time, the spine is likely in a biomechanical distorted state causing undue forces which can lead to weakness, numbness, or tingling.
- Corrections to the spine via Upper Cervical Spinal Care often have a positive impact on herniated/bulging discs. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is the leading non-invasive treatment for herniated/bulging discs.
Testimonials
I’ve been dealing with this weird left sided neck pain for two years now. I’ve done it all. I’ve done massage, heat, cold, cupping, traditional chiro, and physical therapy. Nothing was helping so I went to good ole tik tok and heard about the cervical atlas. I knew immediately this was my issue so I researched local providers who specialized in this and Dr. Lea stood out the most to me as he really seems to exhibit the most knowledge and expertise. So glad I chose him! Staff have always been super kind and helpful. My consult was very detailed and never felt rushed. I just finally felt heard. After X-rays and determining I did indeed have a misalignment with my atlas as well as a cervical compression. I agreed to 12 treatments and after the 1st I already felt better. In conjunction with changing some life style habits I’ve really really had such success with much less pain. I highly recommend Dr Lea! You won’t be disappointed!
Katie
