What causes a herniated disc?

Excessive pressure on the discs and degeneration of the discs cause lumbar disc herniation.  When the spine bends forward (flexes) this position places enormous pressure on the discs especially when the spine in in this position for a long period of time.  A twisting motion combined with the flexed position adds even more strain on the discs.  Athletes involved in sports and activities that involve repetitive bending forward and twisting like golf, baseball and football are more vulnerable to lumbar disc injuries.  Sitting and leaning forward for long periods during office work, studying and driving long distances also damages and injures the discs.  Sitting, more than standing or walking places the discs under enormous pressure and is thought that this is the reason for disc herniation in younger adults. 

As we age the disc begins to breakdown.  The disc loses water and becomes dehydrated.   The collagen and gelatinous matrix that make up the disc weakens making it more vulnerable to injury especially under strain.   A disc herniation puts pressure on the spinal nerves and cause pain.  The injury also causes the release of many different inflammatory substances that irritate the nerve root and cause pain.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

One of the leading causes of low back pain is lumbar disc herniation.  People with lumbar disc herniation also experience pain, numbness, tingling and electrical sensations into the buttock and down the leg.  Other symptoms include muscle cramping, loss of strength and heaviness in the legs.

On rare occasions, symptoms include severe low back pain with loss of bladder and bowel control.  This is cauda equine syndrome and it is a medical emergency.   If not treated immediately the symptoms can become permanent. 

How can acupuncture help herniated discs?

Most people with a herniated disc respond to conservative (non-surgical) care and acupuncture plays an important role.  Acupuncture treatment for herniated discs alleviates pain, releases muscle spasms and restores mobility.  Acupuncture increases micro circulation to the affected area and stimulates the body to produce its own natural pain killers (endorphins).  It also reduces the inflammation that irritates the nerve root by decreasing inflammatory cytokines.  It also stimulates the production of immune cells that clear cellular debris that also irritates the nerve root

Is there anything I can do to help alleviate the pain from a herniated disc?

Yes.  The discs swell overnight and put pressure on the nerve root causing more pain upon waking in the morning.  Avoid movements and stretches that flex the spine first thing in the morning.  Examples are bending to touch your toes or bringing your knees to your chest to stretch your low back.  Always avoid waking and then immediately sitting at your desk or table to check email, study or catch up on work.  Instead go for a walk and allow time for the discs to shrink.  Doing this will lessen the pain you experience during the day.

My free E book 3 Ways to Heal Chronic Pain at the Root has more tips and valuable information to help reduce pain caused by herniated discs.  You can find it on the upper right of this post.

If you are looking for pain relief from herniated discs call 480-832-0966 to schedule an appointment and I will be happy to help you.

Stay well,

Dr. D

Photo credit: https://michaeldorausch.com