What causes disc problems?

Discs are the soft but strong cushions that separate the bones (vertebrae) in your spine and absorb shock as you move. Repeated strain over time, an injury, or sudden, forceful movements can damage discs and irritate nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling in your back, legs, neck and arms.

Healthy disc
A disc has a spongy, gel-like center (nucleus) and a tough outer ring (annulus). The vertebrae rock back and forth and rotate on the discs, allowing you to move easily.

Bulging disc
With repeated stress, a disc can wear down. The disc’s nucleus may begin to bulge into the annulus and irritate nearby nerves.

Ruptured disc
Sudden trauma can cause a disc to rupture. The nucleus pushes through the annulus and presses on nearby nerves, causing severe pain.

How can chiropractic help?
Your treatment depends on the nature of your disc problem. During a spinal adjustment, your chiropractore gently presses on your spine to increase range of motion in your joints, relieve irritated nerves and help prevent further injury to your discs.