In addition to facilitating flexibility, the discs located in your spinal column provide cushioning that decrease the pressure on the vertebrae. A herniated, or bulging, disc occurs when this shock-absorbing cartilage moves out of its normal position. Potential reasons for herniated discs include excess weight, repetitive movements or natural degeneration of the spine. When this happens, it can pinch a nerve, which results in sharp pain and tingling along with numbness and weakness in the arms and legs. Bulging discs can also cause unusual symptoms like headaches and abdominal pain. While mild bulging discs can shift back into their original position without medical treatment, the condition can often persist or worsen if left alone. In these instances, you should seek medical help from an orthopedic surgeon like Craig C. Callewart, MD, PA.

How Can I Know if I Have a Bulging Disc?

Herniated or bulging discs can be the source of varying degrees of back pain. This pain can be ongoing, or it can come and go. It can also range from mild to severe. If you have been noticing any of these types of back pain, bulging or herniated discs may be the cause. You should also seek treatment if you have recently been involved in an auto accident or sports injury. Conditions such as bulging discs can remain unnoticed for days, weeks or even months, which makes it especially important to visit a chiropractor if you have sustained a possible injury.

Treatments for Bulging Discs

When treating a bulging disc, our surgeon will work closely with you to determine the best course of treatment. Some treatment options are designed to provide more support for your spine by strengthening your back muscles. Proper body mechanics can also alleviate or minimize pain.

Spinal adjustments are used to relieve pressure on the spine. Cold laser therapy utilizes gentle, low-level lasers to alleviate pain and accelerate healing in the treated areas. Spinal decompression is an effective treatment that involves applying pressure to the spinal column to stretch the vertebrae, which often allows herniated discs to return to their normal positions. The number of treatments you will need will depend on the severity of your condition. Often, the treatments utilized by our chiropractor effectively restore the discs without the need for surgery. 

After performing a thorough examination and discussing your needs and concerns, we will develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs. Our professional treatment of your herniated disc can reduce or eliminate pain so that you can have a better quality of life. The medical professionals at the office of Craig C. Callewart, MD, PA are trained and ready to provide patients in the Dallas and Addison areas with the highest level of care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!