What is a Disc Herniation?
"Slipped Disc", " Disc Bulge"
Disc herniations are one of the most common causes of sciatica. A disc herniation occurs when the generally oval-shaped intervertebral disc is injured, and the wall of the disc creates an outward bulge or protrusion, pressing backwards towards the spinal cord or nerves. The structure of the intervertebral discs is such that there is a thicker, more fibrous outer layer surrounding a more gelatinous center.
With repeated forward bending, prolonged sitting, or heavy quick loading of the spine in a compromised position, a disc herniation can occur, and the gelatinous center of the disc pushes its way through the fibrous outer layer. This can then put direct pressure and "pinch" nerves, or the resulting inflammation can cause significant irritation.
What are the Symptoms of Disc Herniation?
A common cause of Sciatica
The most common symptoms following a disc herniation are:
- Lower back pain
- Radicular/shooting pain into your leg that will commonly go past your knee
- Numbness and tingling in your toes, foot or leg
- Symptoms are worse while sitting, bending, coughing/sneezing
- Symptoms are generally better while standing and walking
The below symptoms are less common, but if they occur you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Paresthesia/numbness in groin area
- Significant muscle weakness in your legs, feet and ankles
I Think I Have a Disc Herniation, What Should I Do?
Get sciatica treatment in Burlington
If you are experiencing sciatica symptoms that you think could be caused by a disc herniation, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with a trusted chiropractor in Burlington, or other health care provider. At The Recovery Room Chiropractic and Wellness, our team has nearly a decade of experience diagnosing disc herniations and guiding people through the recovery process.
A proper examination should be done to rule out other causes of your symptoms so that a well-balanced and effective treatment plan can be created. Initially, treatment plans should gear towards providing symptomatic relief, followed by increasing your range of motion and functional abilities, and then finally working on strengthening strategies to prevent future injuries.
Treatment plans will generally include; Manual Therapy, Spinal manipulation, Exercise/stretches, Education and other self-management strategies. If you need help with sciatica/a herniated disc, contact our office for an initial assessment.
Dr. Phil Wessel
Chiropractic, Custom Orthotics Fitting
Dr. Phil Wessel is a chiropractor with over seven years of experience helping patients in Burlington and Oakville recover from injury and stay active. Throughout his career, he noticed that many common muscle, tendon, joint, and spine injuries were often treated without addressing the underlying causes, leading to ongoing pain and recurring problems.
This realization led him to create The Recovery Room Chiropractic & Wellness—a clinic focused on providing effective, evidence-informed care for active adults and athletes who want to get back to the activities they love.
Dr. Phil’s treatment approach combines chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, shockwave therapy, and rehabilitation exercise to help patients recover from both acute and chronic injuries. He has a particular interest in treating tendon-related conditions, including Achilles tendonitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff injuries, and jumper’s knee.
A graduate of the University of Guelph and New York Chiropractic College, Dr. Phil understands first hand the importance of staying active. Outside the clinic, you’ll find him spending time with his wife and two children, playing pickleball, or enjoying a round of golf whenever he gets the chance.
Helping active people recover, perform, and stay in the game.
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