Herniated Discs

A disc—a small pad of gel-like tissue surrounded by a thick coating—is sandwiched between each of the bones (vertebrae) that make up the spinal column. Discs, which operate like shock absorbers, cushion the vertebrae, prevent he vertebrae from rubbing together, and allow the spine to bend. Accidents and injuries may cause the spine to misalign. When this misalignment occurs, weight is not distributed evenly across the disc below. The discs may move or “bulge” into the spinal canal or leak out tissue that may press against a nerve. The result is called a herniated, slipped, or ruptured disc.

The first symptom of a herniated disc is usually sudden and extreme pain. Most often, the discs in the lower lumbar and lower cervical regions herniate because this part of the spine carries most of the body’s weight. When the discs in the lumbar region herniate, the pain usually begins in the lower back but may travel into the buttocks, thighs, and legs and cause burning, tingling, and numbness. Discs that herniate in the upper portion of the spine (cervical vertebrae) may cause pain or weakness in the neck, shoulders, or arms.

How NUCCA treatment can help

Before considering an invasive treatment such as surgery, consult with a NUCCA doctor regarding your specific case. In many cases, gentle spinal correction can help to realign the spine, reduce the irritation of the nerve from the herniated disc material, relieve pain, restore spinal mobility, and improve the physical condition of the patient.

The NUCCA correction gently restores the entire spine back to its normal position. With the spine properly realigned, equal pressure is then distributed across the herniated discs, and the affected area can heal. The NUCCA correction is equally effective for both cervical and lumbar disc herniations.