Bulging and Herniated Disc Treatment in Anaheim
If your MRI report shows a bulging or herniated disc you likely have a lot of questions, particularly if surgery has already been mentioned. At Majer Chiropractic Wellness Center, the first step is finding out what the imaging means for you and whether conservative chiropractic care may be appropriate.
A Bulge and a Herniation Aren’t the Same
The discs between your vertebrae have a tough outer layer surrounding a softer center. A disc bulge occurs when the disc extends beyond its usual boundary. A herniation involves displacement of material from within the disc.
Either can occur with or without symptoms. When a disc affects a nearby nerve, symptoms may travel into an arm or leg. Your symptoms, examination findings, and the location and extent of the disc changes all help guide recommendations.
How Years of Lifting and Twisting Add Up
Disc problems don’t always begin with one obvious injury. Repetitive strain over time may play a role, something Dr. Gerald Majer, D.C. often considers when working with Anaheim hospitality and theme park employees.
Work-related factors may include:
- Repeated lifting, bending, and twisting
- Long shifts on your feet
- Awkward sitting or standing positions
- Poor lifting mechanics
- Previous injuries
For patients with physically demanding jobs, care isn’t only about what happens in the office. Our chiropractor also teaches practical ways to sit, stand, bend, lift, and twist with better body mechanics.
When Back or Neck Pain Starts to Travel
Disc-related symptoms vary. Some people notice a deep ache in the lower back or neck, while others experience pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that travels into an arm or leg.
A Thorough Evaluation Comes First
Not every disc problem is a chiropractic case. That’s why we begin with a history and orthopedic and neurological testing. X-rays may be taken when clinically indicated, and existing MRI findings can also be reviewed.
Our chiropractor spent years coaching chiropractic interns at Southern California University of Health Sciences, where careful assessment of disc cases was an important part of his teaching. If your findings indicate that chiropractic care isn’t suitable for your situation, you’ll be referred for further medical evaluation.
NEW PATIENTS
What Care May Look Like
If you’re a candidate for chiropractic care, recommendations are based on your examination, imaging when available, daily activities, and goals. Visits may be more frequent initially and taper based on your progress.
Disc problems that develop gradually can take time to manage. Rather than promising a particular timeline, we monitor how you’re responding and adjust recommendations along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help with a herniated disc without surgery?
How long does a disc problem take to improve?
Get a Clearer Picture of Your Disc Problem
If you’ve been told you have a bulging or herniated disc, an evaluation can help you better understand your findings and options. Contact Majer Chiropractic Wellness Center to schedule an appointment.
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