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A Herniated Disc

Dr. Giuseppe Cannillo July 21, 2011

The most common cause of acute leg pain (sciatica) with low back pain involves a herniation of a lumbar disc. Disc problems are by far, the most common cause of back ailments. Lumbar disc lesions are responsible for well over 90% of all symptoms attributable to the lower back. Low back pain is the cause of more disability than any other single affliction on earth. Disc protrusion or herniation is an extension of nucleus pulposus material through the annulus into the spinal canal.  Disc damage preludes to a herniation beginning at an early age, due to increased intra-discal pressure caused by lifting heavy objects in lumbar flexion and rotation.  This causes damage to the disc that brings about low back pains.  In patients who develop disc herniations, one or more episodes of low back pain frequently precede the disc herniation and sciatica. Disc herniations that cause nerve compression can heal spontaneously, provided that low intradiscal pressures can be maintained for three months.  This can be attained in three ways:

  1. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods.
  2. Avoid lifting or carrying heavy objects.
  3. Being treated by a Chiropractor that utilizes a technique called Cox Flexion Distraction

Cox Flexion Distraction Manipulation is a form of Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation Therapy allowing the following benefits:

  1. Increases the intervertebral disc height, allowing a reduction in the dimension of discal protrution.
  2. Allows the nucleus pulposus to assure its central position within the annulus and relieving irritation and pain.
  3. Restores vertebral spinal joints to their physiological relation of motion.
  4. Improves posture and locomotion while relieving pain, improving body function and creating a state of wellbeing.

In conclusion some quite small adverse interference or forces, a mere ripple, can lead to severe back pain.  An equally small nudge, a therapeutic force, can start the process of healing in a remarkable way. The excitement and challenge in treating low back pain is knowing when to apply complex measures and when the “little nudge” of simply listening, caring, and encouragement are all that is required. The art of selecting the most appropriate treatment requires skill of the highest degree.