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 Accident Care 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?
Pain in Neck/Back
Localized discomfort due to disc pressure.
Limb Pain
Nerve compression sends pain outward.
Muscle Spasms
Involuntary tightening around injury.
Tingling Sensations
“Pins and needles” in arms or legs.
Numbness
Loss of sensation from nerve blockage.
Weakness
Reduced strength in limbs.
Stiffness
Tightness in muscles and pain limiting mobility.
Electric-like Shocks
Sharp, burning nerve signals.
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 often develops over time due to repeated stress or wear and tear. Common causes include:
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly, straining spinal discs.
- Sudden twisting or bending movements that force a disc out of place.
- Repetitive strain from physical jobs or activities, gradually wearing down a disc.
- Age-related disc degeneration, where the outer layer weakens and tears.
- Falls or accidents that impact the spine, causing a disc to shift or rupture.
- Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting or standing, creating uneven pressure on the spine.
Any of these factors can cause pressure on the spine, leading to a bulging or ruptured disc.
Long-Term Problems from Ignoring a Herniated Disc
Leaving a herniated disc untreated can lead to serious long-term issues, such as:
- Persistent numbness or tingling that becomes permanent due to nerve pressure.
- Muscle loss from reduced nerve signals or limited movement.
- Ongoing weakness in the arms, legs, or hands, reducing strength and function.
- Trouble with balance or walking due to weak or numb legs.
- Chronic pain and stiffness, making daily tasks harder.
- A higher chance of needing spine surgery as the condition worsens.
Seeking early treatment can prevent nerve damage and reduce the need for invasive procedures.
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 Accident Care 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 Accident Care 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.
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FAQs
- 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.
