Herniated Disc Treatment in Kennewick
Living with a herniated disc can feel like you’ve lost control of your body. Whether the pain is in your lower back, neck, or mid-spine, daily activities can become difficult and exhausting. At Washington Chiropractic, we understand that herniated or “slipped” discs don’t just cause pain. They can also lead to nerve problems, muscle imbalances, and a drop in your quality of life. Our goal is to help you move more easily, reduce your pain, and get back to your routine through focused, non-invasive care.
Early evaluation and targeted care can significantly improve outcomes for herniated disc-related symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
Common signs of a herniated disc include:
- Pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back: This happens when a damaged disc puts pressure on nearby nerves or tissues, causing discomfort in that area.
- Pain that travels down the arms or legs: The disc may press on a nerve, sending pain down into your limbs.
- Muscle tightness or spasms: Muscles around the spine may tighten to protect the injured area, causing stiffness or cramping.
- Tingling or “pins and needles” in hands or feet: Nerve pressure can lead to prickly, tingling sensations in your limbs.
- Numbness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet: When nerves are compressed, they may stop sending signals, leading to a loss of feeling.
- Muscle weakness in the arms or legs: Compressed nerves can limit strength and make it harder to hold, lift, or carry objects.
- Difficulty bending, lifting, or walking: Pain and stiffness can make normal movement uncomfortable or limited.
- Burning or electric-like shocks in the body: Irritated nerves may send sharp, shooting sensations that feel like shocks or burning.
Types of Herniated Discs
Herniated discs can develop in different parts of the spine. The symptoms and severity depend on where the disc is located and how much it presses on nearby nerves.
- Cervical Disc Herniation: Happens in the neck and may cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
- Thoracic Disc Herniation: Less common, but can cause pain in the mid-back and around the ribs or chest.
- Lumbar Disc Herniation: Occurs in the lower back and often affects the sciatic nerve, leading to leg pain, foot numbness, or weakness.
In all cases, the soft disc between the spinal bones becomes damaged. It may bulge or break open and press on nearby nerves.
Causes of Herniated Discs
A herniated disc does not always come from one specific injury. It often develops over time due to repeated stress or wear and tear. Common causes include:
- Lifting heavy objects without using proper form: Using your back instead of your legs when lifting can strain and damage spinal discs.
- Sudden twisting or bending movements that stress the spine: Quick or awkward motions can force a disc out of place.
- Repetitive strain from physical jobs or activities: Repeating the same back-straining tasks daily can slowly wear down a disc.
- Age-related disc degeneration, where the outer layer of the disc weakens: As we get older, discs lose strength and are more likely to tear or bulge.
- Falls or accidents that jar the spine: A strong impact or injury can shift or rupture a disc.
- Poor posture, especially while sitting or standing for long periods: Slouching puts uneven pressure on the spine, which can damage a disc over time.
Any of these factors can put pressure on the spine and cause a disc to bulge or rupture.
Long-Term Problems from Ignoring a Herniated Disc
Leaving a herniated disc untreated can lead to serious long-term issues, including:
- Persistent numbness or tingling that doesn’t go away: Long-term nerve pressure can make these sensations permanent.
- Muscle loss from reduced nerve signals or limited movement: If a muscle isn’t used or doesn’t receive signals from the nerve, it can shrink or weaken.
- Ongoing weakness in the arms, legs, or hands: Untreated nerve pressure reduces strength and function in your limbs.
- Trouble with balance or walking: Weak or numb legs can make it harder to move safely and steadily.
- Chronic pain and stiffness that make daily tasks harder: The discomfort may become constant, limiting your ability to sit, bend, or stand comfortably.
- Higher chance of needing spine surgery later on: Waiting too long to treat the issue may leave surgery as the only option.
Getting care early can help prevent nerve damage and reduce the chances of needing invasive treatments.
Is Herniated Disc Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Yes, most insurance plans cover treatment for herniated or slipped discs. This often includes chiropractic care, diagnostic imaging (if needed), and other therapies like laser treatment. At Washington Chiropractic, our team will help you understand your coverage, verify your benefits, and take care of the paperwork—so you can focus on getting better.
How Washington Chiropractic Can Help
We use a non-invasive, comprehensive approach to treat herniated discs. First, we perform a full evaluation, which may include posture checks and nerve testing. Then we create a treatment plan based on your condition and goals. Your care may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments to ease pressure and improve spine alignment
- Class IV laser therapy to reduce inflammation and support tissue healing
- Shockwave therapy to reduce pain and encourage recovery in damaged areas
- Therapeutic massage to relax tight muscles around the spine
- Education on movement and posture to help prevent future problems
Whether your herniated disc is in the neck, mid-back, or lower back, our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and help you move with confidence again.
If you’re dealing with nerve pain, numbness, or stiffness caused by a herniated disc, don’t wait. Contact Washington Chiropractic at our Kennewick, Lakewood, or Pasco location and begin your recovery today. Let us help you return to a more active, pain-free life.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Please use the booking tool below to schedule an appointment at our Kennewick location or call (509) 579-0008.
For other locations, see: Lakewood Chiropractic Clinic and Pasco Chiropractic Clinic.
- Can Kennewick chiropractors help with a herniated disc?
Yes, Kennewick chiropractors use non-surgical methods such as spinal adjustments, laser therapy, and personalized rehabilitation plans to relieve pressure, reduce pain, and support healing in patients with herniated or slipped discs. - Can I get disability for herniated discs?
In severe cases, a herniated disc may qualify for disability benefits, particularly if it significantly limits your ability to work or carry out daily activities. Proper medical documentation and a formal diagnosis are essential for a successful disability claim. - How long does it take for a disc herniation to heal?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the herniation and the individual’s response to treatment. Mild herniations may improve within a few weeks, while more severe cases can take several months. Following a consistent treatment plan promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of long-term complications. - What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?
The most effective approach combines chiropractic care, gentle physical therapy, laser treatments, and postural correction. Staying active through guided exercises and avoiding activities that strain the spine can significantly accelerate the healing process.
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