Disc Problems & Back Surgery
Many researchers believe that the disc is one of the most common sources of back pain. The disc may show signs of wear and tear as early as age 15. As you age, the disc may lose fluid and small cracks form in the outer walls. This ageing may be accelerated by the vertebral subluxation complex, a spinal distortion chiropractors correct. If the gel-like centre of the disc beings to push the outer ring a little out of shape it is called a herniation. If the herniation causes the disc to bulge a little its called a protrusion. If the disc bulge goes into the spinal cord or puts extreme pressure on the lumbar nerves, it is disc prolapse. A prolapse may cause such severe pain that sitting, standing, walking or lifting could be impossible. Other symptoms can include pain when urinating, defecating, sneezing and coughing; numbness of the leg or foot or a loss of muscular control may also occur.
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Disc degeneration may damage spinal nerves and contribute to conditions in the pelvic area. Among these are endometriosis infections (bladder, vaginal, kidney) urinary retention, prostate problems, miscarriage, sterility, sexual impotence, cystitis, menstrual cramps and constipation. It is not uncommon for an individual who has a chronic back problem to suffer from one or more of the above problems also.
A proper alignment between the disc, the vertebrae and other structures in the spine is essential for healthy discs and that is why chiropractic has such an excellent record with disc sufferers, often saving them from the bleak prospect of surgery. Chiropractors have claimed reduction of lumbar disc protrusion as a result of spinal care.
Chiropractic spinal care may help prevent your spine from deterioration and your discs from herniation. Chiropractic spinal care can also help if you've already had surgery. Chiropractors can often help relieve the pain and frustration of failed back surgery and may also help prevent future operations.
