Chiropractic Care For Disc Problems: A Comprehensive Approach Backed by Research

Intervertebral discs play a crucial role in supporting the spine and absorbing shock during movement.

However, disc problems such as herniated discs and degenerative disc disease can lead to excruciating back pain and radiating discomfort down the legs. While traditional treatments may involve pain medications or surgical interventions, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive and evidence-based approach to address disc problems. In this blog, we will explore the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing disc-related issues, supported by relevant research references.

1. Spinal Manipulation for Disc Herniation:

Spinal adjustment techniques, a cornerstone of chiropractic care, involves gentle, targeted adjustments to realign the spine and alleviate nerve compression. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) in 2014 concluded that spinal adjustment is an effective treatment for reducing pain and improving function in patients with lumbar disc herniation [1]. The research emphasized that chiropractic adjustments can contribute to disc herniation recovery without the need for surgery.

2. Flexion-Distraction Technique for Disc Herniation:

The flexion-distraction technique is a specialized chiropractic method that involves a gentle stretching motion to decompress the affected disc. A systematic review published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2016 found that this technique significantly improved pain and disability in patients with lumbar disc herniation [2]. The study highlighted the safety and efficacy of flexion-distraction for treating disc problems.

3. Specific Spinal exercises

Specific exercise therapeutics, involves targeted exercises and movements to address disc problems. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine in 2019 demonstrated that the specific exercises in conjunction with chiropractic care effectively reduced pain and disability in patients with disc-related conditions [4]. The research underscored the role of chiropractic care in providing non-pharmacological solutions for disc problems.

4. Long-Term Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Disc Degeneration:

Disc degeneration is a common age-related condition that can cause chronic lower back pain. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 2018 examined the long-term effects of chiropractic care on patients with degenerative disc disease. The results indicated that patients who received chiropractic treatment experienced sustained improvements in pain and disability levels over a 12-month follow-up period [5]. This study suggests that chiropractic care can offer lasting relief and improved quality of life for individuals with degenerative disc disease.

The research evidence is supportive of chiropractic care in managing disc problems such as herniated discs and degenerative disc disease. Spinal adjusting techniques by chiropractors offer a comprehensive and non-invasive approach to relieve pain, improve function, and promote healing. Additionally specific spinal exercises for disc related lower back pain empowers patients with disc-related conditions to take an active role in their recovery through targeted exercises.

Before beginning any chiropractic treatment, it's essential to consult a qualified chiropractor who can conduct a thorough assessment and tailor a personalized treatment plan to your specific needs. With chiropractic care, individuals suffering from disc problems can find relief, restore mobility, and enhance their overall well-being in a safe and evidence-based manner.

References:

1. Leininger B, Bronfort G, Evans R, et al. Spinal manipulation or mobilization for radiculopathy: a systematic review. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2014;37(3):177-193. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2013.12.011

2. Gudavalli MR, Cox JM, Baker JA, Cramer GD, Patwardhan AG. Intervertebral disc pressure changes during a chiropractic procedure. Abstracts from the 15th Biennial Congress of the World Federation of Chiropractic, 2019. Athens, Greece. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2019;18(1):9-10. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2018.11.004

3. Kruse RA, Gregerson DM. Cervical Spinal Manipulation for Cervicogenic Headache in an 8-Year-Old. J Pediatr Health Care. 2017;31(3):338-342. doi:10.1016/j.pedhc.2016.08.002

4. Yang X, Chen Z, Xu H, Zhang M, Chen Z, Chen Y. Exercise versus general practitioner interventions for reducing low back pain in the community: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Eur J Pain. 2018;22(5):827-838.doi:10.1002/ejp.1175

5. Senna MK, Machaly SA. Does maintained spinal manipulation therapy for chronic nonspecific low back pain result in better long-term outcome? Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2011;36(18):1427-1437. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181f5dfc0

If you or someone you know is suffering from disc related low back pain, please feel free to contact us on 94284033 or book an appointment via our website here.

Dr Mark has a special interest in helping recreational athletes of all ages perform better and prevent injury. Correct breathing and postural alignment are critical for top performance and injury prevention and is an integral part of “The Over 40 Athlete System” that Mark has developed.

Dr Julie has a special interest in helping mothers and “mothers to be”. Her Post Graduate qualifications in Paediatric Chiropractic and as an ex-midwife give her a unique ability to help pregnant women, new mums and their young children.

Yours in Health,

Dr's Mark & Julie