Disk Dilemma: Unpacking the Mystery of a Slipped Disk!
Feb 9, 2024 -- Posted by :While digging a hole in my garden, I struck a rock with my shovel. After removing the surrounding soil, I bent down and reached into the hole. Struggling to grasp the rock, I had to twist my body to slide my arm underneath it. As I attempted to lift the rock, I experienced a sudden weakness in my lower back accompanied by mild pain. Disregarding it, I tried again, only to be met with sharp pain upon twisting, which intensified into a stabbing sensation when I tried to straighten up. Since then, standing up straight has been impossible, and I've been plagued by shooting pain down my left leg.
The intervertebral disk acts as a cushion between each vertebra in our spine, spanning from the tailbone to the neck. These disks serve as shock absorbers when in good condition. Each disk comprises an inner liquid-like nucleus and a tough, laminated outer annulus that encases the nucleus. The annulus features concentric rings, akin to the rings of an oak tree, with crisscrossing fibers providing strength and a secure enclosure for the nucleus. Despite this robust structure, disks can degenerate, crack, or tear, allowing the nucleus to seep out, resulting in a "slipped disk" (also known as a herniated or ruptured disk). This can press on the nerve extending down the leg, causing pain that may radiate to the foot. The specific path of the pain down the leg depends on which disk is affected, influencing the questions a chiropractor might ask regarding the pain's location.
Now, the crucial question arises, "What can be done about it?" When visiting a chiropractor, you'll be asked about the incident leading to the injury. Herniated disks often result from cumulative stress rather than a singular incident, although a significant event, like lifting a heavy rock, might be the final trigger. It's uncommon for a perfectly healthy disk to herniate; typically, pre-existing degeneration and tears predispose the disk to injury from a combination of bending and twisting motions. Diagnostic orthopedic and neurological exams can pinpoint the herniation level. Chiropractic care may include traction, spinal manipulation or mobilization, extension exercises, and physical therapy modalities such as electric stimulation, low-level laser, ultrasound, and ice therapy. Strengthening the core/trunk, managing posture, and teaching proper mechanics for bending, lifting, pulling, and pushing are also integral parts of treatment.
So, if you are experiencing back pain, lower back pain, or pain in the coccyx and type in pain management near me or chiropractor near me, you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up.
You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my back and who in my area can refer me?”
Also, if you feel leg pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your back. Some people will try stretching the lower back first to see if they get relief from their back pain. Pain very low in the lower back may be originating from the coccyx or tailbone. A pulled muscle in the back generally will get better with rest. Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional around you.
Check out what the experts say about chiropractic care for back pain here:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32749874/
Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at Coast Chiropractic Centers at (239) 278-3344 or stop by on your day off for a walk in visit and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment.
So if you find yourself experiencing lower back pain while running or doing physical activities or if you are suffering from back pain that is affecting your quality of life and allowing you to enjoy Fort Myers Beach. Come see us at Coast Chiropractic Centers located on 7270 College Parkway.
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If you would like to avoid getting back pain in the first place or to take a proactive approach to your health and wellness nearby, our membership program called Club C may be just the thing for you with great cost savings, convenience, and even more importantly, a plan to get your health back and keep it.
Don't let back pain stop you from enjoying the beautiful SWFL! Dr. Tim Harcourt is here to give you the relief you need.