Are you experiencing lower back pain? You might be suffering from what is commonly referred to as a slipped disc. But what is a slipped disc exactly?
Did you know that your discs act as shock absorbers?
The human spine has 24 vertebrae. In between each is a jelly-like sac called the intervertebral disc. These discs act like spongy shock absorbers. When we are young these intervertebral discs are resilient to a lot of wear and tear. However, the discs can be damaged by traumatic events or repetitive stresses such as poor posture, falls, sporting injuries etc. As we age the discs become less spongy and less supportive and slowly degenerate.
What is a slipped disc and how does it differ from a disc bulge?
A disc bulge will occur when the outer fibers of the disc (the annulus fibrosis) weaken or tear. This in turn allows the contents of the disc to push out, either on one side or both. If the bulging of the disc contents is large enough, it will start to push on the spinal nerves. This creates neural symptoms, such as sciatic in the lumbar spine. In other words, disc bulging is what is commonly referred to as a “slipped disc”.
At Our Chiro Brisbane we have many different treatments to help with disc problems, as well as many preventative treatments to help reduce the risk of disc problems.
It is important for people with lower back pain to seek help whether it is as result of accidents, or repeated trauma such as sports. Even people who spend most of their day sitting at a desk need to have their spines assessed professionally.
If you have any questions, please contact one of our friendly staff at the clinic to find out more. Contact Our Chiro Chiropractor Brisbane on 07 3257 0399 or via our website.
This blog post was written and approved by Dr Simon Nash
Dr Simon Nash (M.Chiro, B.Chiro Sci.) is a chiropractor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He is a full professional member of Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) and Chiropractic Australia, and is AHPRA registered (CHI0000970189). Simon graduated from Macquarie University and is dual-registered to practise in Australia and Hong Kong.
He began his career in a multidisciplinary neurology-focused clinic in Sydney, developing a strong interest in treating headaches and migraines. Since 2006, he has operated Our Chiro Brisbane, now alongside his sisters Jessica and Rebecca.
Simon treats everyday injuries, workplace rehabilitation cases and complex presentations using a wide range of techniques. His sports medicine experience spans elite athletes including NRL and Rugby Union players, Olympians, and events like the Australian Open and Hong Kong 7s. He has also treated Guns N’ Roses during tour.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or replace professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a chiropractor, GP, or other qualified health professional regarding any medical condition or treatment.
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