There are 23 discs between the vertebrae in the human spinal column. Each disc acts as a flat cylindrical shock absorber that cushions our vertebrae from each other when we walk, run, jump, twist or bend. Each disc has a jelly-like substance inside of it called the nucleus pulposus. It is retained inside the disc by bands of cartilage that comprise the disc annulus.
Injuries or degenerative conditions may cause vertebrae to become misaligned. When that happens, spinal discs can bulge and compress spinal nerves. In some cases, a disc’s annulus will break, leading to the nucleus pulposus leaking out and compressing a spinal nerve. In either case, compression of a spinal nerve can be extremely painful. At Winchester Chiropractic Center in Winchester, VA, two of the services we offer are acupuncture and spinal disc decompression, both of which are effective methods of relieving the pain and discomfort associated with bulging or herniated discs.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a therapeutic model in which extremely thin needles are inserted into different parts of a patient's body. Insertion of the needles stimulates specific nerve pathways that are associated with a displaced or herniated spinal disc. Acupuncturists believe that the locations where acupuncture needles are inserted are places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can all be stimulated. Not only does acupuncture stimulate blood flow that carries important nutrients for healing, but it also triggers the production of endorphins that are one of the body's natural painkillers
Spinal Disc Decompression
A popular modality of chiropractic care and treatment is non-surgical spinal disc decompression therapy. During spinal decompression, patients are harnessed to a moving table that gently stretches the spine, encouraging relaxation, improving circulation, and promoting the body’s natural ability to heal itself. When the spine is stretched, blood flow is restored to the injured location. Important nutrients for healing flow with that blood.
Spinal decompression treatments are typically performed three times a week for at least a month. After two months of spinal disc decompression therapy, most patients notice a radical improvement in their condition. Our chiropractor may also instruct you on corrective exercises to be performed at home. These exercises will strengthen your body, enhance the benefits of chiropractic care, and reduce the likelihood of spinal injury occurring again in the future.
Chiropractor in Winchester
Acupuncture and spinal decompression therapy provide significant relief to patients suffering from bulging and herniated spinal discs. Our chiropractor will evaluate your condition to determine which treatment options are right for you. For more information or to schedule an appointment with our chiropractor, call Winchester Chiropractic Center at (540) 667-0220.
