Disc Injury Treatment in East Greenwich, RI

Comprehensive Consultation and Exam

To effectively treat a disc herniation, we must make an accurate diagnosis. By going through a detailed examination protocol, we can determine the location and severity of the disc to apply safe and more effective treatment.

We begin our process through a detailed consultation that includes how the problem might have occurred and any exacerbating factors that are slowing recovery (working out, job, daily tasks around the house). We seek to understand how this problem is keeping you from doing everything you need to do, want to do, and love to do. After this, we begin an examination that includes range of motion, orthopedic, chiropractic, and neurological tests to determine the source of the problem and to rule out underlying structures, such as the disc, that are contributing to pain.

We will take X-rays if warranted to see the underlying structure of the problem. X-rays provide us with more accurate diagnoses by looking for things like fractures, arthritis, and degeneration, as they help us come up with a safe and effective treatment plan. Compiling detailed information allows us to meet the mark when it comes to making sure that you get back to the life you want to live, as well as offering effective treatment options. We will review the X-rays together in the office. We believe that knowledge is power, and the more you know about what’s going on with your health, the better you’ll be!

Digital X-rays

X-rays are an essential tool when dealing with low back pain because they allow healthcare professionals, including chiropractors, to see the bones and structure of the spine in detail. They can reveal issues such as:

• Misalignments
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Bone spurs
• Fractures
• Signs of arthritis

While X-rays don’t show soft tissues like muscles or discs directly, they can help identify if something is putting abnormal pressure on the spine or if there is a structural problem contributing to the pain.

We always say, “To see is to know, and to not see is to guess, and we will never make guesses when it comes to your health.” Structure also dictates function. By using X-rays to see the underlying structure, this insight is essential for understanding the root cause of low back pain rather than just treating the symptoms.

Modern X-rays are very safe, as they use minimal amounts of radiation and are highly regulated to protect patients. When used appropriately, the benefits of diagnosing spinal issues far outweigh the risks. X-rays help guide doctors or chiropractors in creating a precise and effective treatment plan tailored to the patient’s condition. They ensure that adjustments, exercises, or other therapies are based on accurate information, which reduces the risk of further injury and improves the chances of a full recovery.

Specific Chiropractic Care in East Greenwich, RI

When a spinal disc is injured, the tough outer layer, called the annulus fibrosus, can weaken or tear, allowing the soft inner gel-like center, the nucleus pulposus, to shift or push outward.

• In the case of a bulged disc, the disc extends outside its normal boundary but remains intact.
• A herniated disc is more severe, where the inner material breaks through the outer layer.

Both types of disc injuries can press on nearby nerves, causing inflammation, pain, numbness, or weakness in different parts of the body, depending on the location of the injury.

Chiropractic care helps heal disc injuries by gently realigning the spine to reduce pressure on the injured disc and surrounding nerves. Techniques like spinal adjustments and decompression therapy promote better spinal motion, increase circulation, and support the body’s natural healing process. Unlike conventional treatment models that often rely on medication or invasive procedures to mask symptoms, chiropractic care addresses the root cause of the problem. This drug-free, non-surgical approach not only relieves pain but also restores function and prevents future injury, making it a more holistic and effective option for long-term recovery.

Custom Therapeutic Exercise Plan

Exercises are crucial for disc injury care because they help strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improve flexibility, and promote proper alignment. Weak or imbalanced muscles can place extra stress on the spinal discs, increasing the risk of injury or worsening existing conditions. For example, tight or weak core muscles can cause the lower back to bear more strain, potentially leading to disc problems. Additionally, when a vertebra is misaligned due to a subluxation, nearby muscles may become tight or weak as they try to compensate, further destabilizing the spine and contributing to pain or injury.

Good posture plays a vital role in maintaining spinal health and reducing low back pain. Poor posture, such as slouching or sitting improperly, can compress the discs and strain muscles, accelerating wear and increasing discomfort. Exercises for injured discs are designed to gently strengthen core and back muscles, improve flexibility, and restore proper posture. Examples include pelvic tilts, bridges, gentle yoga stretches, and core stabilization exercises. These movements aim to relieve pressure on the discs, promote healing, and prevent further injury by supporting the spine’s natural alignment and function.

Spinal Decompression in East Greenwich, RI

The spinal disc is a key component of the spine’s structure and function. Each disc is located between the vertebrae and is made up of two main parts:

• The annulus fibrosus, a tough outer ring of cartilage
• The nucleus pulposus, a soft, gel-like center

These discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing for flexibility, movement, and stability. They help distribute loads evenly across the spinal column during activities such as walking, bending, or lifting, protecting the bones from grinding against each other.

When a disc becomes damaged or begins to degenerate, it can play a significant role in low back pain. A bulging or herniated disc may press on nearby spinal nerves, causing inflammation, pain, numbness, or tingling in the back, hips, or legs. Additionally, when discs lose height due to degeneration, it reduces the space between vertebrae, increasing pressure on joints and nerves. This is a common source of chronic low back pain and discomfort for many people, especially those with poor posture, previous injuries, or age-related wear and tear.

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical therapy designed to relieve this pressure on the spinal discs and nerves. It works by gently stretching the spine using a specialized table or device, which creates negative pressure within the discs. This negative pressure encourages the retraction of herniated or bulging disc material and improves the flow of nutrients, oxygen, and fluids into the disc to promote healing. Over time, this can reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore spinal health.

Spinal decompression is included in chiropractic care because it directly addresses the mechanical cause of many disc-related issues. Rather than simply masking symptoms with medication or resorting to invasive surgery, decompression therapy supports the body’s natural healing process. It is safe, effective, and often provides lasting relief for patients suffering from chronic low back pain due to disc injuries. Incorporating spinal decompression into care plans helps patients recover more completely and maintain better spinal health in the long term.

Repetitive Motion and Stress

Jobs that involve repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting are most at risk for disc injuries. This includes professions like construction workers, nurses, warehouse employees, truck drivers, and office workers. Repeated bending, twisting, or lifting can place constant stress on the spine, gradually wearing down the discs. Similarly, sitting for extended periods without proper posture or support can cause disc compression and misalignment. Over time, even minor repetitive movements or poor ergonomics can lead to significant spinal strain, making these occupations more vulnerable to injury.

The stress on spinal discs accumulates over months or even years, often without noticeable symptoms until the damage becomes serious. Preventing injuries starts with good workplace ergonomics, regular breaks to stretch or move, and using proper techniques when lifting or performing repetitive tasks. Employers should provide training and equipment that support spinal health. If an injury does occur, it’s important to report it immediately, seek medical or chiropractic care, and follow a recovery plan tailored to the injury. Prompt action can reduce long-term damage and help workers return to their jobs safely.

Heavy Lifting

Heavy lifting typically refers to lifting objects that are too heavy for your body to handle safely, usually anything over 50 pounds. However, this can vary depending on a person’s size, strength, and fitness level. Lifting causes disc injuries when the spine is placed under too much pressure or is moved in a way that forces the discs out of alignment, like bending at the waist instead of the knees, twisting while lifting, or carrying loads unevenly. The excessive strain can cause a disc to bulge, herniate, or tear, especially if the lifting is done repeatedly or without proper technique. This can be due to an increase in intrathecal pressure, or the amount of pressure a disc is designed to tolerate. Intrathecal pressure can increase due to weight, position, or a combination of the two.

To lift safely, it’s important to bend at the knees, keep the back straight, push the buttocks backwards, and use the legs to power the lift rather than the back. Holding the object close to the body, avoiding twisting motions, and asking for help with heavier loads can also prevent injury. Other preventative measures include strengthening the core muscles, using ergonomic tools or lifting belts, and taking frequent breaks during physically demanding work. If a disc injury occurs due to improper lifting, treatment may include rest, physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and in some cases, spinal decompression therapy. Addressing the injury early can prevent it from becoming chronic and help restore normal spine function.

Auto Accidents

Auto accidents can cause disc injuries due to the sudden, forceful impact that occurs during a collision. When the body is jerked forward or backward unexpectedly, especially in whiplash injuries, the spine experiences intense pressure and unnatural movement. This can lead to herniated or bulging discs as the force compresses the spine and causes the soft inner material of a disc to push out through the outer layer. Even low-speed collisions can result in significant spinal damage, particularly if the body was unprepared for the impact.

Recovery from auto accident-related disc injuries typically includes a combination of chiropractic care, spinal decompression therapy, and rehabilitative exercises. The goal is to reduce inflammation, restore proper spinal alignment, and support the healing of damaged discs. Patients need to seek care as soon as possible after an accident, even if they don’t feel pain right away, because symptoms can be delayed. Patients should also know that documenting their injuries and treatment is crucial for personal injury claims. Working with a provider experienced in auto accident care ensures that they receive proper care, legal documentation, and support throughout the recovery process.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition in which the spinal discs – which are the soft, cushion-like structures between the vertebrae – begin to break down over time. This natural wear and tear can lead to reduced disc height, loss of flexibility, and the development of bone spurs or herniated discs. People with DDD often experience chronic back or neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort that may radiate into the arms or legs. The pain can worsen with activities like sitting, bending, or lifting, and may improve with walking or lying down.

DDD typically develops with age but can also result from repetitive stress, poor posture, obesity, smoking, or previous injuries. People over the age of 40, those with physically demanding jobs, or individuals with a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk. While DDD can’t be completely prevented, staying active, maintaining good posture, strengthening core muscles, avoiding smoking, and keeping the spine function properly through chiropractic care and decompression therapy can slow its progression. Treatment options focus on relieving pain and restoring function. Chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and lifestyle changes are non-invasive ways to manage DDD. In severe cases, surgical options may be considered, but conservative care often provides significant relief and helps patients maintain mobility, as surgery should be the last option to consider when it comes to the spine.