Spinal Disc Overview
“Slipped Spinal Discs..Fact Or Fiction?”
I was consulting with a new patient recently and they were telling me their back pain was because someone else had told them it was because they had a slipped disc in their lower back.
So, I am going to clarify this issue for you because the fact of the matter is there is no such thing as a slipped disc.
First of all, let’s review what a spinal disc actually is.
You will find a spinal disc between each of the 24 vertebrae that make up your spine.
[flashvideo file=http://lifechiropractic.s3.amazonaws.com/03.04.2014.slipped.disc.bi-1.m4v image=https://lifechiropracticcentre.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/slipped.disc_.jpg width=500 height=305 /]The disc is mostly made up of cartilage with a jelly-like substance in the centre.
The spinal disc has 2 very important functions. One is to separate the vertebra so that there is adequate room for the large nerve roots to exit the spine.
And they also act as shock absorbers for the spine.
The disc is firmly attached to the vertebra directly above it and the vertebra directly below it so it is virtually impossible to slip. BUT, a disc can decay (get thin when they should be plump), they can swell or bulge (like a bruise or a sprain), they can rupture (tear) and they can herniate where the jelly-like centre starts to leak out. This is by far the worst scenario because a herniated disc will require a surgical repair.
Remember that a spinal disc rarely becomes a problem unless a subluxation is present. When the vertebrae are misaligned, this puts an incredible amount of unnecessary stress on the spinal disc causing it to become weak and unstable and prone to these types of injuries.
So, another one of the many benefits of chiropractic care is that they help to keep your spinal discs healthy and strong and resistant to these types of injuries.
If you have any further questions about this topic or any other health concerns you and your family may have, please send us an email or give us a call at 905 335 LIFE (5433).
Remember that consultations are always free of charge and family appointments are always available.
Life Chiropractic … helping families just like yours build vibrant, healthy, drug-free lives for over 25 years in Burlington.