Herniated Disc: An Alternative and Natural Treatment Method

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc, is a medical condition affecting the spine in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring of an intervertebral disc allows the soft, central portion to bulge out beyond the damaged outer layer. A herniated disc usually occurs due to sporting injuries, lower back injuries, repetitive twisting of the spine, or injuries to the upper cervical spine. If left untreated, a herniated disc can result in serious secondary conditions, such as sciatica and chronic lower back pain.

Signs and Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Patients may not even realize they have a herniated disc until they’re suffering from consistent pain in the back. If you suspect you may have a herniated disc, you might also experience tingling or numbness in the extremities, disrupted fine motor abilities, awkward gait, weakness of the muscles, headaches, and shooting pain in the lower legs or arms that worsens when you sneeze, cough, or sit in a certain position. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects a Herniated Disc

The upper cervical spine is comprised of seven stacked vertebrae and forms the topmost segment of the spinal column. Because of its proximity to the brainstem and central nervous system, a disc herniation in this region of the spine can compress or pinch major nerve roots. Over time, nerve compression and inflammation around the spinal cord can cause the disc to herniate further, potentially leading to serious physical and neurological symptoms. 

How our Upper Cervical Spine Treatment for a Herniated Disc Works 

If you’re suffering from a herniated disc but can’t seem to find relief, consider speaking with an upper cervical chiropractic specialist. At Advance Upper Cervical Chiropractic, our board-certified chiropractor, Dr. Noah Kaplan, has had great success treating herniated discs with the Blair Technique, a gentle and precise form of upper cervical chiropractic care which focuses on rebooting the body’s natural healing mechanisms and restoring natural alignment to the spinal column.

When treating a herniated disc, Dr. Kaplan’s first step is to determine whether a vertebral misalignment in the upper cervical spine is behind the condition. To do so, we use a series of state-of-the-art 3D imaging diagnostic tools, including Cone Beam computed tomography scans, to inspect the upper cervical spine and cranio-cervical junction. 

If a misalignment is detected, Dr. Kaplan will perform a series of precise adjustments to gently push the vertebra back into natural alignment. By restoring balance and function to the upper cervical spine, Dr. Kaplan is able to take pressure off of the nerves and allow the herniated disc to heal naturally. Most patients see marked improvement in their symptoms after just a few weeks of care.

If a herniated disc is stopping you from doing the things you love, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Kaplan about the health of your upper cervical spine. Located in Walnut Creek, California, Dr. Kaplan also services Pleasant Hill, Concord, Lafayette, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore.