woman supporting man with back painFrom the base of the skull to the tailbone, our spinal column consists of 24 bones called vertebrate and the sacrum. Between each vertebra is a cushioning disc that absorbs impact and allows us to move with ease.

A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer of the spinal canal.

While men are twice as likely to experience a herniated disc, anyone can be at risk. This tear or rupture most often affects the lower back or neck. What should you know to prevent a herniated disc?

Do I Have a Herniated Disc?

A very common injury, more than 3 million people experience a herniated disc each year. Unfortunately, this condition is often misdiagnosed as:

  • Piriformis syndrome – when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks compresses the sciatic nerve.
  • Degenerative disc disease – when the spinal bones are not moving properly, the disc loses its ability to remain strong and healthy. Over time, the disc will thin, bulge and ultimately rupture.
  • Osteoarthritis – when the cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time.

One reason why this condition can be mistaken for another is the location of discomfort. A herniation also irritates the surrounding nerves.

A slipped disc in your back affects the legs and lower internal systems, including the bladder and digestion, while one in your neck may cause pain in the upper extremities, which causes tingling, numbness and weakness.

Causes of a Herniated Disc

The leading risk factors for a herniated disc include age, obesity, occupation and sedentary living. Often the result of a sudden impact, injury or age-related wear-and-tear, a herniated disc can also happen as a result of the following.

Bending

Our core and back muscles allow us to bend forward. When these muscles are weak or inflexible, this motion can place excess force on the vertebral discs. To bend safely, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend at the hips and knees rather than the waist.

Lifting Heavy

Similar to bending, if you lean forward incorrectly and try to lift a heavy object the additional weight can rupture a disc. To properly lift, squat down and keep your back straight, chest out and shoulders back as you grip and raise up the item.

Exercising

A herniated disc can result from lifting heavy weights or performing repetitively strenuous activities. Particularly for runners, tight hip flexors can pull the pelvis forward and place strain on the spine. On the other hand, a sedentary lifestyle can lead to pinched back nerves.

Poor Posture

If your job requires you to stand or sit for long periods, the spine can develop a forward bend that places more pressure on the discs. Take frequent breaks to move, sit or stretch.

How a Chiropractor Can Help

An injury to the spine can affect other areas of the body. A complete consultation will help us determine if you have a herniated disc, including a physical exam and X-rays to see if any discs have thinned.

During the physical exam, your reflexes may be tested to ensure the nerves are functioning properly and muscle strength assessed for any weakness.

To treat a herniated disc, a specific treatment plan will be developed for your individual condition, including spinal adjustments. We may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier and getting more exercise.
 
At The Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury, we take a wholistic approach to patient care for overall improved wellness. To learn more about our services, contact us today!

"I have had amazing experiences here, from the front staff to the doctors. They explain everything to you in detail and in a way you understand. I would highly recommend them."
Marguerite R.
"From the moment you walk into the office, you are welcomed with a smile and they even manage to remember every single patient's name. They treat you like family and put a lot of emphasis on your care. I started coming to this office when my son was about 4 months old and now at 11 months old, I have seen SO much progress with his neck that I myself started to see Dr D. and I am very grateful to have found such a wonderful place."
Nichole C.
"Best chiropractor ever! Highly recommend! The people here are so nice! 10/10"
Rich A.
"If I could give more than five stars, I wouldn't hesitate to do so. The office staff are all very professional and accommodating. There have been several instances where I had to make a last minute change to my appointment - either a cancellation or different time - and the office responded right away to make it happen. Not only this, but my appointments are always quick, yet very efficient. The doctors take their time in addressing my questions and explaining things so that I receive the best possible care."
Zach G.
"Dr. Wade has been wonderful! I never thought spinal care was a preventative health measure until I started here. The entire staff are very accommodating and friendly! My back has never felt better! I plan to continue to come for maintenance."
Amanda S.
"I have been going to the Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury for years. Dr. D. keeps me walking and moving so I can work and enjoy my grandchildren. The staff in the office are great. They are like a second family to me. I know I can call and they will always fit me in if I have to have an adjustment."
Catherine K.
"Great staff. Listen, understand, and educate you throughout the process. Flexible with scheduling and will do everything they can to accommodate you."
Hunter R.
"The staff at Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury is wonderful. They take time to get to know you, personally. They all always have a smile to greet you with and are genuinely concerned for your comfort and well being. Dr DeFrancesco truly wants to make sure you understand your issues with your body and he takes time to explain what those are."
Daniela P.
"The administrative staff and practitioners are all friendly, capable, efficient, and very responsive. In addition, Dr. Keith Wade is knowledgeable, passionate about his craft, patient and thorough in answering questions. As a direct result of all that, my low back, ankles an knees feel much better, I am in less pain, and I am less afraid that my back will keep hurting or "going out." I am very grateful."
Malinda B.
"Best chiropractor ever! Highly recommend! The people here are so nice! 10/10"
Rich A.
"My whole family goes to Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury. My other half has been getting adjustments for years and he has been the driving force for the family to get checked out. He says since he has been coming here, if his back has any issues or is out, it seems to get better much faster than ever before. If you've had any problems with your back, you'll know that speaks volumes. We trust this group!"
Maggie P.
"They are not only extremely professional and helpful but genuinely care about your well being! In addition, the group is very supportive of the community. I love that they partnered with We Are the Children to donate thousands of dollars worth of toys.
Jocelyn D.
"My whole family goes to Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury. My other half has been getting adjustments for years and he has been the driving force for the family to get checked out. He says since he has been coming here, if his back has any issues or is out, it seems to get better much faster than ever before. If you've had any problems with your back, you'll know that speaks volumes. We trust this group!"
Maggie P.
"Being a part of this chiropractic "family" has been a totally positive experience. The office itself is calming and clean, the office staff is friendly and engaging and makes a point to know everyone's name. Regarding the professional staff, I feel like I have gotten top quality care. I would definitely recommend this practice!!"
Diane Z.
"Best Chiropractic center in the State. I went to three chiropractors and none of them got my lower back back into place. I went to see Dr. D. and he snapped me back to normal in the first visit. Look no further. This place is the pinnacle of Chiropractic."
Joseph B.
"Dr. D has been providing an integrative approach to the health and well being of my family for over 25 years. He is not only a highly skilled practitioner, but is a compassionate and caring person, not only to his patients but to the community.
Susan K.
"Dr. Wade and the front office staff are fantastic. The office is friendly and super efficient. I have never had to wait more than 10 minutes to be seen. Dr. Wade got my back feeling better. I’m feeling healthier and have much more energy."
Corey M.
When I first came, I was out of alignment and had joint soreness but through my continual sessions, my overall health has improved 100%. I want to thank all the staff for their support and education."
Benjamin I.
"There is no better place than Chiropractic Health Center, from the moment you step into the office, you are welcomed with a smile and they even manage to remember every patients name. They put a lot of emphasis on your care, you start feeling better with every visit. I would recommend this practice over any other possible treatment/office in the state."
Carlos V.
"Such a great experience in understanding and learning how to treat my chronic pain! The office staff is wonderful, informative and empathetic! Dr. D is also invested in making you to your best self! They found a convert here!"
Debby D.
"Amazing place to get realigned! Everyone in here is highly knowledgeable and genuine. I've been a patient here for 10+ years and recommended it frequently!"
Kyle M.
"I felt heard, taken care of, treated with kindness and respect. Wonderful positive experience. A very welcoming office and staff. Definitely a five star establishment!"
Beth M.
When I first came, I was out of alignment and had joint soreness but through my continual sessions, my overall health has improved 100%. I want to thank all the staff for their support and education."
Benjamin I.
"Great experience! Our whole family goes and we have referred other family members. Dr. Wade is awesome, he listens and wants what is best for his clients."
Kayla B.
"They are not only extremely professional and helpful but genuinely care about your well being! In addition, the group is very supportive of the community. I love that they partnered with We Are the Children to donate thousands of dollars worth of toys.
Jocelyn D.
"Being a part of this chiropractic "family" has been a totally positive experience. The office itself is calming and clean, the office staff is friendly and engaging and makes a point to know everyone's name. Regarding the professional staff, I feel like I have gotten top quality care. I would definitely recommend this practice!!"
Diane Z.
"They are not only extremely professional and helpful but genuinely care about your well being! In addition, the group is very supportive of the community. I love that they partnered with We Are the Children to donate thousands of dollars worth of toys.
Jocelyn D.
"They are not only extremely professional and helpful but genuinely care about your well being! In addition, the group is very supportive of the community. I love that they partnered with We Are the Children to donate thousands of dollars worth of toys.
Jocelyn D.
"Being a part of this chiropractic "family" has been a totally positive experience. The office itself is calming and clean, the office staff is friendly and engaging and makes a point to know everyone's name. Regarding the professional staff, I feel like I have gotten top quality care. I would definitely recommend this practice!!"
Diane Z.
"Great experience! Our whole family goes and we have referred other family members. Dr. Wade is awesome, he listens and wants what is best for his clients."
Kayla B.
"My whole family goes to Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury. My other half has been getting adjustments for years and he has been the driving force for the family to get checked out. He says since he has been coming here, if his back has any issues or is out, it seems to get better much faster than ever before. If you've had any problems with your back, you'll know that speaks volumes. We trust this group!"
Maggie P.
"I have been a patient for over a year and have seen terrific results from my plan of care. I was introduced to the office by a friend after I told him I was having back pain. The staff and doctors have been outstanding. They took some x-rays and ruled out certain things and put me on a plan of care that helped get me straight and pain free. I can't thank them enough."
Matt U.
"I have been a patient for over a year and have seen terrific results from my plan of care. I was introduced to the office by a friend after I told him I was having back pain. The staff and doctors have been outstanding. They took some x-rays and ruled out certain things and put me on a plan of care that helped get me straight and pain free. I can't thank them enough."
Matt U.
"I have been a patient for over a year and have seen terrific results from my plan of care. I was introduced to the office by a friend after I told him I was having back pain. The staff and doctors have been outstanding. They took some x-rays and ruled out certain things and put me on a plan of care that helped get me straight and pain free. I can't thank them enough."
Matt U.
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