HERNIATED DISC IN Indianapolis IN

Disc herniation is where the soft interior of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, putting pressure on nerves in your spine. If you have symptoms of a herniated disc in Indianapolis IN, board-certified chiropractor Jeffry Yoder D.C. of Meridian Chiropractic Clinic can help. Dr. Yoder uses advanced techniques such as spinal decompression to release the vertebrae and return the disc material to its proper place. To achieve relief from herniated disc pain, call Meridian Chiropractic Clinic today or book an appointment online.

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What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs that sit between each pair of vertebrae tears. Inside the disc is a jelly-like center called the nucleus pulposus, which then pushes out through the tear.

Another disc condition is a bulging disc. Whereas a herniated disc results from trauma to your spine, a bulging disc develops when you have a wear-and-tear condition called degenerative disc disease.

In this case, the nucleus pulposus doesn't push through the disc's outer surface, as there's no tear. Instead, it presses against the thinning shell, causing the disc to bulge or spread out.

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What symptoms does a herniated disc cause?

In addition to the pain coming from your damaged disc, the inner material that's squeezing out irritates and compresses nearby nerves, which is often the chief source of your discomfort and other symptoms.

Herniated discs cause pain that goes from the middle of your body outward. A herniated disc in your neck might cause pain that spreads down your arm, while a herniated disc in your lower back could cause pain that spreads down your leg.

Pain from a herniated disc may be shooting or burning and is often severe. You may also suffer numbness or tingling in the affected limb.

Discs play an important part in protecting your vertebrae and keeping your spine stable. Any damage or deterioration of the discs could cause chronic pain and loss of function. But with Dr. Yoder's expertise, you can recover from a herniated disc without needing surgery.

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How can chiropractic care In Indianapolis IN help with a herniated disc?

There are several techniques Dr. Yoder can employ to treat a herniated disc. Spinal decompression or traction is often one of the most effective, as it encourages the nucleus pulposus to go back inside the disc.

Traction involves lying on a special motorized table that immobilizes your top half. The bottom of the table moves to gently pull the spine so the vertebrae shift apart slightly, which is enough to get the disc material back in position.

Dr. Yoder likens traction to pulling apart a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and seeing the jelly shrink back to the center of the bread.

Pelvic blocking techniques are similar, but use cushion wedges to support your pelvis while Dr. Yoder manipulates your spine to carefully move the disc back into position.

To benefit from Dr. Yoder's expertise in treating herniated discs, call Meridian Chiropractic Clinic today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.