Herniated Disc Treatment in New Jersey

Are you suffering with muscle spasms or excessive numbness, weakness or tingling in your leg, foot or arm? Perhaps you felt a sudden ache in your back and are now unable to stand straight. Have you been diagnosed with a herniated disc? Whether the pain is dull or stabbing, it is imperative to understand the mechanics of a herniated disc and the treatment options that exist.

The vertebrae or bones that form the spine are cushioned by spongy discs, which act as shock absorbers to keep the spine flexible. The disc is made up of an outer fibrous ring with a central soft portion, consisting of a gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus. Discs receive nourishment through the motion of the vertebrae. If movement does not occur, the outer ring becomes dry and may tear, allowing the soft portion of the disc to bulge out (herniated disc). This condition may also be called a slipped, ruptured or bulging disc.

In general, herniated discs affect the lower back or lumbar spine, although they can appear anywhere along the spine. Pain and numbness in the buttocks and down the leg - or sciatica, is one of the most common symptoms of a herniated disc in the lower back. A small percentage of herniated discs occur in the cervical spine or neck or in the thoracic spine or upper back. A herniated disc can happen suddenly or can progress gradually. In addition, pain or discomfort may take time before appearing.

Years of neglect, nutritional deficiencies, injuries, wear and tear, lack of proper exercise, incorrect lifting, muscular imbalances, subluxations, age or being overweight are spinal abuse factors. For this reason, maintaining optimal spinal health is crucial.

Herniated disc formation has four stages. The first stage is disc degeneration, in which the nucleum pulposus weakens, without bulging. The next stage is prolapse, which is a slight bulge or protrusion begins to form and crowd the spinal cord. Extrusion is the third stage, where the nucleus pulposus breaks through the wall, but is still within the disc. In the final stage - sequestration, the nucleus pulposus breaks through, moving outside the disc into the spinal canal.

Early diagnosis is the best way to correct a herniated disc. Evaluation begins with a complete health history, physical examination, x-rays, observation of posture, pelvic balance, range of motion and overall physical condition. An MRI or CAT scan may be used to detect soft tissue damage or a bulging disc. An EMG is used when nerve damage is suspected.

A herniated disc may necessitate integrating multiple treatment options, such as pain management, physical therapy and chiropractic. Pain management relieves pain and reduces muscle spasms and inflammation. Treatment options include prescription pain medication intervention, trigger point, joint and epidural injections, nerve blocks, facet joint blocks and radio frequency nerve ablation.

In conjunction with pain management, physical therapy may be incorporated to help heal, restore function and improve body mechanics. To protect joints from further injury or strain, assistive devices - such as taping, splints, braces or orthotics may be used. To maintain normal joint movement, relieve stiffness and increase flexibility - physical therapy exercises are added. These include range-of-motion, stretching and strengthening exercises. Many patients continue their exercise program long after their prescribed therapy is completed; therefore, a home exercise program can be created.

Chiropractic care often plays a key role in a herniated disc treatment program. Non-surgical spinal decompression, as well as physical manipulation allow joints to be adjusted directly, reducing stiffness and pain. Massage, heat therapy, cold therapy, and TENS can be offered to also help increase range-of-motion and reduce pain.

Unfortunately, many Americans consume a diet rich in animal protein and fat - resulting in overweight and obese adults. Additional pounds can damage knee, ankle, foot and hip joints, as well as placing an undo strain on the back. Poor nutrition can increase inflammation and trigger pain. As part of a complete treatment program, lifestyle changes are vital. Proper nutrition, along with maintaining proper posture while working, standing, sitting or sleeping, can reduce pain and possible future injury.

A customized, comprehensive herniated disc treatment program - to reduce pain and inflammation, maximize stamina and energy and improve mobility without surgery, must be created for each patient.

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Call New Jersey’s own Alternative Integrated Medical Services today at 732-254-5553 and receive a FREE Initial Consultation. Our goal is to provide the most advanced and compassionate pain relief. Our Team of Experts and friendly staff at your local East Brunswick, NJ AIMS Clinic, will help you reduce or eliminate pain and improve function. As our patient, we will teach you how to regain your health with our revolutionary new treatment program.