If you live in or around Fairfield, CA, you can have peace of mind knowing that Dr. Michael Wilson at Kosak Chiropractic Clinic will take care of all your chiropractic needs. Apart from providing top-quality chiropractic care, Dr. Wilson offers nutrition and lifestyle advice to his clients. Identifying underlying causes prevents injury and slows down degeneration. There are several ways, for instance, to protect yourself from herniated discs.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc is one of the most common causes of neck, back, and leg pain. The soft cushions that lie between the vertebrae are called discs. A herniated disc, also called a slipped or ruptured disc, is a condition in which the disc's inner gel seeps through a tear in the disc's outer ring, which then causes an irritation in the surrounding nerves. Although a herniated disc can occur in any part of the spine, it typically occurs in the lower back.
Symptoms
While it can cause intense pain, many people with herniated discs experience no symptoms. If you’re one of the unlucky ones who are experiencing symptoms, these may include:
- Arm or leg pain: Depending on where the herniated disc is located, you may feel pain in your neck, back, thighs, calves, and/or buttocks.
- Numbness or tingling: Some people also experience a numbness or tingling in the area where the nerves are being affected by the herniated disc.
- Muscle weakness: Since nerves control muscle movements, a muscle can be negatively affected if a nerve is compressed by a herniated disc.
How To Prevent
A herniated disc is often the result of the aging process since discs become more prone to tearing and slipping after many years of wear and tear. However, it can also be the result of poor lifestyle choices such as smoking, overeating, or a lack of exercise. Here are a few easy steps you can take to protect yourself from a herniated disc:
- Don’t smoke: Smoking decreases the oxygen supply in the body, which can cause discs to decay faster.
- Maintain good posture: Good posture reduces the pressure on the spine and discs.
- Keep your weight down: Extra body weight places more stress on the discs.
- Exercise: Exercise strengthens the muscles that stabilize and support the spine.
When To See a Chiropractor
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, you may be suffering from a herniated disc. The good news is that Dr. Wilson at Kosak Chiropractic Clinic can provide you with treatment that will alleviate your pain and discomfort. You can book your appointment online or you can call the clinic at (707) 426-1111.