Intervertebral discs are influential in affording your body its range of motion. Discs are named based on their location in the spine: cervical, thoracic and lumbar. Discs in the cervical region support the weight of the head and allow it to move while in the lower region, lumbar discs support the weight of the upper body and allow for a reasonable amount of compression. As we age and our spines grow weary of repetitive motions, the discs can tear, creating pressure on the associated nerve tissue. Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the condition, which makes it critical to receive a proper diagnosis.

• Lumbar herniated discs are among the most common, because of their crucial positioning in the spine. The lumbar region is responsible for supporting the body’s weight and general flexibility. As we grow, more weight creates more compression on these discs. When the compression reaches a breaking point, the discs can tear. Lumbar herniated disc pain is generally local to the tear, but can radiate to the lower body and cause sciatica if the sciatic nerve is affected.

• Cervical herniated discs are also common, as they also play a crucial role in the body’s functioning. The pivot point located in the cervical vertebrae allows us to move our head from side to side. This repetitive motion can wear down the vertebrae over the years, causing herniation. Pain associated with cervical herniated discs can be felt in the neck, head, shoulders and arms.

• Thoracic herniated discs are the least common but are no less significant. often, they are caused by direct trauma – a car accident, sports injury or persistently poor posture. Pain from a thoracic herniated disc can be felt in the upper and lower body.

Herniated discs are a common injury that comes with aging and degeneration of the spine. As such, most herniated discs will heal themselves naturally. Chiropractic offers you treatment that helps facilitate the recovery and minimalize pain. At Scorca Chiropractic Center, we have expertise diagnosing and treating herniated discs at any region in the spine. Call our office in Fremont at (510) 656-9077 or e-mail at [email protected] if you think you may be suffering from a herniated disc.

Dr. Francis Scorca, D.C.