The Body's Shock Absorbers

Just as your car needs shock absorbers to keep it running properly, your body also has shock absorbers. As you move, the discs (or "shock absorbers) of your body and spine work with the natural curves of your spine to reduce pressure and stress. These discs separate each vertebra, and form the needed spacing for your nerves to exit your spinal cord, which is what allows them to keep your body tissue and organs healthy. The annulus, or rings of fibrous tissue, are filled with a soft jelly center. You need these to be healthy and aligned to keep your body on track.

If overworked, the shock absorbers in your car will get damaged. The same goes for your discs. They can herniate, bulge, degenerate, and tear (but they don't "slip" - a term that is commonly used incorrectly). If you find yourself experiencing pain in your low back, it is possible you are suffering from a herniated disc or other disc issues.

Here are two common disc problems that can be helped through chiropractic care.

THE BULGING DISC

If an area round the annulus is weakened or out of place, the soft center is able to be squeezed out and bulge like a bubble, leading to pressure being put on the surrounding nerves. If you are experiencing bulging discs, chiropractic care can provide a solution. They respond well to realignment and have even helped some patients avoid major surgery.

HERNIATED DISC

A bulging disc certainly causes discomfort, but a ruptured or herniated disc can lead to more serious issues. The most common place for a herniated disc to happen is the lower back, though they can occur anywhere in the spine. When the soft center of the annulus is pushed through a weakened area due to degeneration or a trauma, a ruptured or herniated disc occurs. This causes great pressure to the spinal cord, leading to extreme pain and discomfort.

Simple exercises such as walking, drinking more water, and better nutrition paired with chiropractic care can offer a non-surgical alternative for many disc issues, and put you on the path to a healthier lifestyle.