Call Us Today


Westminster: (303) 457-4570

We are a Spanish speaking office.

Herniated Disc

Herniated discs can cause severe pain and numbness that radiates from the spine into the arms or legs. At Metro Denver Accident & Injury Centers we understand the difficulties of living with a herniated disc. If you are experiencing the symptoms of a herniated or bulging disc in Westminster, Lakewood, or Aurora, we can help you find relief. 

.

Common Symptoms of a Bulging or Herniated Disc

Bulging and herniated discs are similar, but not exactly the same. A bulging disc means that the disc is bulging out of its normal location. This can cause pain and nerve irritation. A herniated disc is more severe. A herniated disc usually protrudes further and indicates a rupture in the disc. This makes it more likely to cause pain than a bulging disc. 

Herniated disc symptoms will vary depending on where the disc is located. If it's located in your neck, the pain may begin in your neck and radiate down one shoulder and arm. If it's located in your lower back, pain may radiate down your hip and leg. In some cases, the pain extends into the feet. Pain from a herniated disc isn't directly related to its severity.

Herniated Disc Diagnosis and Treatment

A physical exam and discussion about your symptoms are usually enough for a chiropractor to diagnose a herniated disc.  However, imaging tests are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis. Nerve tests can reveal damage caused by a herniation. 

Treatment for herniated discs will depend on the injury's location, severity, and other individual factors. However, there are a few treatments that are commonly used for bulging discs. 

The goals of chiropractic treatment are first to restore function and relieve pain. Once the pain is relieved and function is restored, treatment will focus on long-term healing. This can prevent your condition from getting worse and keep the pain from returning. 

Spinal manipulation is the core of chiropractic care. The gentle pressure used by the chiropractor can help restore spinal alignment and help the disc go back into place. Other techniques include spinal decompression or traction, which relieve the pressure that is normally on the spine. This can allow the disc to heal. Along with these treatments, exercise can be beneficial for relieving pain and speeding healing. These treatments are believed to help restore the flow of nutrients to the spine which can improve spinal health and speed the healing process. 

Metro Denver Accident & Injury Centers is committed to providing the treatment residents of Aurora, Westminster, and Lakewood need. If you are experiencing herniated disc symptoms, visit our chiropractor today.