Herniated Disc/Disc Injury Treatment In Lincoln, NE

Dr. Shane Davidson DC Lincoln, NE Chiropractor

Herniated Disc Specialist

A herniated disc or a ruptured, bulged, or slipped disc, occurs when a disc fragment pushes through the annulus and into the spinal canal. Often, herniated discs are a sign that the discs are degenerating. If you have a herniated disc, you will likely benefit from seeing our chiropractor Dr. Shane Davidson DC, at Lincoln Chiropractic clinic.

Dr. Shane Davidson DC is a specialist in treating Herniated discs and is happy to discuss treatment options. We have a chiropractic care plan for you, whether you have experienced cervical disc herniation or lumbar disc herniation. Give us a call at 402-817-7373.

Symptoms Of Herniated Disc

There are a variety of symptoms of a herniated disc, including:

  • Severe pain in the lower back
  • Pain that radiates to arms or legs
  • Numbness or uncomfortable tingling in legs and foot
  • Pins and needles in extremities
  • Muscle spasms in the back or legs
  • Muscle weakness or clumsiness
  • Sore or stiff neck
  • Overactive reflexes

Types Of Herniated Disc

There are three types of herniated discs:

  • Contained herniation/protrusion – Occurs when the disc nucleus puts outward pressure on the annulus. The disc will protrude or bulge outward from your vertebrae. 
  • Non-contained herniation/extrusion – This is when the disc nucleus breaks through the annulus. This is also known as a ruptured disc. 
  • Sequestered herniation – Part of the nucleus breaks through the outside of the disc and becomes entirely separated from the rest of the nucleus.

Causes Of Herniated Disc

According to Herniated disc Doctor in Lincoln, herniated discs have a wide range of causes, most commonly including:

  • Disc degeneration – as we age, so do our discs, and they become weaker and more susceptible to damage
  • Lifting objects that are beyond our strength capacity can cause a disc to herniate
  • A sedentary lifestyle can cause herniation due to lack of joint strength and poor circulation to the discs
  • Prolonged sitting may cause herniated discs

Long Term Problems Due To Untreated Herniated Disc

According to Dr. Shane Davidson DC, a herniated disc specialist at our Lincoln, NE chiropractic practice, it is essential to treat injured discs and not suffer long-term problems. These problems include:
  • Chronic pain in back and legs
  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Loss of sensation in back, legs, and neck
  • Limited range of motion and Partial paralysis
  • Damage to bowels, bladder, or rectum, leading to incontinence

Temporary Pain Relief

Some temporary home remedies for temporary relief include:

  • Alternating ice packs and heating pads on the affected area
  • Lie face down with pillows under your hips
  • Practice proper posture when sitting, standing, and walking
  • Light exercise and stretching must avoid heavy lifting
  • Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen
  • Avoidance of jerky or twisting motions
  • Avoidance of heavy lifting

Herniated Disc Treatment

If you are wondering how to heal a herniated disc naturally or with external help, there are a variety of options, including:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen
  • Prescription painkillers for more severe cases
  • Light physical exercise
  • Stretching exercises
  • Heating pads
  • Ice packs
  • Avoidance of strenuous activities
  • Chiropractic treatment techniques
  • Spinal adjustment
  • Massage
  • Flexion-distraction
  • Pelvic Blocking
  • Stretching
  • Physical Therapy
  •  
  • Therapeutic ultrasound to shrink collagen fibers
  • Epidural steroid injection for pain relief and reduced inflammation
  • Laminotomy
  • Laminectomy
  • Spinal surgery
  • Artificial disc surgery
  • Spinal fusion

Book An Appointment

Request an appointment online by calling us on (402) 817-7373

You can also use the online booking tool below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs

Are Chiropractors safe for herniated discs?

Doctors of Chiropractic are highly trained professionals with plenty of experience in treating herniated discs. They are qualified to provide specific treatments for those suffering from herniated discs. If you have concerns, you can schedule a consultation to walk you through our process. 

Does Medical Insurance Cover Herniated Disc?

Most medical insurance providers will cover chiropractic treatment for herniated discs, but it is best to call your provider. They may want to start with non-invasive treatments for minor cases before moving forward with more complex procedures. 

What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?

For minor pain resulting from a herniated disc, you can reduce inflammation by alternating a heating pad and an ice pack. NSAIDs may also help relieve the pain temporarily. Stretching and light exercise are also great ways to provide immediate relief. 

Can you still walk with a herniated disc?

Most people with herniated discs can still walk, even if there is pain. It is recommended that you continue to walk because lack of activity can lead to muscle weakness, making the condition worse. If you are unable to walk, you should see a doctor immediately. 

What activities should you avoid with a herniated disc?

Stay away from high-impact exercises like jumping, contact sports, or running. You should also avoid any sort of heavy lifting, whether at the gym or in your daily life. Activities that require jerking or twisting motions should also be kept to a minimum.

How long does it take for a disc herniation to heal?

A herniated disc can take four to six weeks to heal, but some people are lucky to have minor cases that go away in a few weeks with the proper amount of therapy. In severe cases of disc herniation, the healing process may be longer than six weeks. 

Can I make a herniated disc worse?

Strenuous activities such as heavy weight lifting, high-impact sports, and running can worsen your herniated disc by applying unnecessary pressure to the area. Sitting for long periods can also contribute to compression that can aggravate the herniated disc. 

Can I go to the gym with a herniated disc?

You can go to the gym with a herniated disc as long as you perform a light, low-impact exercise. It is recommended to exercise regularly to strengthen your muscles and stretch out your spine. Just remember not to overdo it.

How long does it take a herniated disc to heal without surgery?

In most cases, you can expect a herniated disc to heal through natural methods in four to six weeks. Some minor cases may even go away in just a few weeks. Severe cases can last several months. 

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Dr. Shane Davidson Lincoln, NE Chiropractor
Doctor of Chiropractic
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