Treating a Bulging Disc with Chiropractic

Many cases of a bulging disc have few or no symptoms and often do not cause any pain. They can, however, cause muscle weakness and numbness around the area and sometimes cause pain. Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine. They’re composed of a tough outer layer of cartilage that protects the softer cartilage on the inside. As you age, the hard outer shell of the disc begins to dehydrate and stiffen. This causes the disc to expand, or bulge out, expanding beyond the vertebrae.

A bulging disc is often a precursor to a herniated disc which is caused when a portion of the outer disc cracks, allowing the soft inner core to leak out. A herniated disc is much more likely to cause pain than a bulging disc. That being said, a bulging disc can carry its own set of symptoms and discomfort which can be treated by a chiropractor.

If the bulging disc begins to protrude too far out, it can begin to irritate nerve roots or compress the nerves, causing severe pain and discomfort. Swelling and inflammation are also often associated with bulging discs. Patients also may experience pain or numbness and tingling down the arms or legs called “radicular pain” or “radiculopathy.”

How Chiropractic Therapies Heal a Bulging Disc

When a disc begins to protrude outward it can often cause inflammation, muscle aches, and pain. Through the use of spinal decompression, a chiropractic therapy specifically designed to treat bulging discs, a chiropractor is able to reduce the swelling and inflammation, relieving the pressure being put on the nerves. This helps to reduce pain while also giving your body the tools needed to heal on its own.

Additionally, a bulging disc left untreated often leads to a herniated disc which is usually much more painful and debilitating. By addressing the problem early on, a chiropractor can help manage the symptoms of a bulging disc while helping to ensure it doesn’t progress further, causing a herniated disc.

Get Assistance for Bulging Discs with Chiropractic Care in Wichita, KS

If you’ve been diagnosed with a bulging disc or have been suffering from back pain, contact Stanley Chiropractic to schedule an exam. We can assess the root cause of your pain and determine the best course of treatment. (316) 685-4965

Dr. Mike Stanley is a chiropractor in Wichita, KS. At Stanley Chiropractic, we believe that too many people in Wichita struggle daily with the burden and frustration of pain. We strive to help our patients overcome their pain and thrive at home, work, the gym, and play.