Having an injury to your spine can be extremely painful and debilitating. Back pain can limit what you are able to do on a daily basis and have a negative effect on your life. One of the most common causes of back pain is a herniated disc on your spine. If you are suffering from back pain, it is important that you talk to your Plano chiropractor to find the relief you need.

What Is A Herniated Disc?

The vertebrae that make up your spinal column are cushioned by small discs. These discs act as shock absorbers for your spine and keep it flexible. When one of these discs becomes damaged, it can break open or bulge, otherwise known as a herniated disc. Herniated discs can occur at any point along the spine but they are most common in the lower back area. They can be caused by wear and tear on the spine as you age or injure your back.

When a herniated disc puts pressure on nerve roots in your spine, it can cause pain, weakness and numbness in the area of the body where that nerve travels. Many times, a herniated disc in the lower back can cause pain or numbness in the buttocks or down your leg. However, if you have a herniated disc that is not pressing on a specific nerve, you may simply have a backache or no pain at all. Either way, it will be beneficial for you to seek treatment from your chiropractor to relieve any pain you do have and stop the problem from getting worse.

Treatment For A Herniated Disc

If you are experiencing back pain, see your doctor as soon as you can. He or she will be able to give you a diagnosis based on information you provide. In addition, he or she may use an MRI or CT scan on your back to check for a herniated disc and to rule out any other problems. Many times a herniated disc will repair itself over time. The use of a heating pad can also be helpful to stimulate the healing process. If more conservative treatments like these do not work, you may require surgery to help you get rid of your pain.

To prevent a herniated disc, there are a few things you should remember. First, protect your back when you are lifting weights. Make sure to lift with your legs instead of lifting with your back. It is also helpful to maintain good posture when you are standing and sitting. It is also important to stay at a healthy weight, get regular exercise and don't smoke. All of these practices will lessen your risk of developing a herniated disc in your back.

To learn more about herniated discs or to schedule an appointment, contact your chiropractor in Plano today.