Spinal discs are little cushions that act like shock absorbers, and they are firmly attached between the bones of the spine. They are soft and flexible, but incredibly strong. Based on their appearance, they are often compared to a jelly donut. The healthy disc has a powerful outer ring that holds the ‘jelly’ in the middle of the disc and relieves pressure on the nerves. The disc also provides space between the bones of your spine and allows for painless motion in all directions. This ultimately enables healthy communication between the brain and the body.
Now imagine a stack of books pushing on one side of the jelly donut. That will make the jelly come out of the other side. Our discs in our spine are very similar, where the gel can push out against the spinal nerves- this is a bulging disc or herniated disc.
There are different degrees of disc damage. There are disc bulges, disc herniations, disc extrusions, and more. Typically, by the time you have the pain show up, the actual underlying problem has been there for months, years, or even decades. You may have experienced back pain that has come and gone over the years, and, due to the lack of correction, significant disc damage may have occurred.
Herniated discs and bulging discs typically occur in two main ways. The first is old trauma. Whether you were in grade school, high school, or college, you have probably had an injury or an impact. Have you ever fallen off your bike? Slipped on the ice? If you’ve played any competitive sports, you have affected your body.
But most often, discs are damaged slowly by the wear and tear of sitting too much at a computer or monitor, or by a sedentary lifestyle. Discs painlessly wear out and then one day- wham! The symptom shows up. That is when we typically get the phone call. Regardless of the underlying cause of your bulging disc, our office is uniquely equipped to get you back in the game.
$99 New Patient Special
Includes Consultation & Exam, MRI Review, X-Rays, Dr’s. Report Of Findings (Day 2). Must mention this special. Some exclusions may apply. Not valid for Medicare, Auto/Personal Injury, Worker’s Compensation.
How Our Care Plan Works
1. Discover The Root Cause
Through a detailed history, a thorough examination, X-Ray study, posture and motion analysis and neurologic testing, we will gather the necessary information to determine why you feel the way that you feel. What is actually causing your pain is brought to light!
2. Clarity, Confidence And Peace Of Mind
With a dedicated time to go over your findings, you will receive personalized recommendations that are specifically geared toward addressing each underlying cause of your health problem. This clear and comprehensive approach will leave you feeling confident and peaceful in choosing our office.
3. Maximize Your Potential
Whether you are addressing headaches or major disc herniations, we will be with you the entire way. As your health restores, you are beginning to maximize your potential. Add years to your life and life to your years. This is when the real wellness starts. Welcome to Arizona Chiropractic Center!
How We Treat Disc Injury in Peoria, AZ
Traditional medical treatment for bulging discs includes the symptom-treatment “cocktail” of painkillers, muscle relaxers, and anti-inflammatories. Most of the time, it is simply ineffective because it doesn’t address the problem’s root cause.
Simply treating the symptoms may buy you some time, but it doesn’t restore you. That is why you are reading this right now. Yes- you want to get out of pain, but you want to be healed!
Comprehensive Consultation and Exam
Our office has a very high success rate of keeping people out of invasive spinal surgeries. We start with a comprehensive history and examination. You are an individual, and your reasons for your back and neck problems are unique to you. We’ll dial in on how you got this way and what needs to be done to fix it.
After a detailed history and getting to know you and your goals, we will conduct a thorough postural and biomechanical analysis, along with orthopedic testing. How exactly has your spine been misaligned? Digital X-rays remove guesswork. And if an MRI is needed, we can handle that, too. Specific information allows us to make a targeted, gentle adjustment that addresses the underlying cause of your bulging disc.
Specific Chiropractic Care in Peoria, AZ
Specific spinal adjustments are a critical component of a disc healing protocol. Different conditions are treated differently. Bulging, herniated, and extruded discs, as well as other disc problems, will be addressed based on each patient’s needs. Our office does not do the “one size fits all” chiropractic adjustment. If you have been the recipient of non-specific spinal manipulation, you can rest assured that our adjustments will be specific and entirely guided by our physical, X-ray, and MRI findings if necessary.
We achieve excellent results by adjusting the individual vertebrae. We move our hands to get different contact points and different angles on your spine, and it makes all the difference. The analysis we use is the specific Gonstead chiropractic analysis. It is exact and provides the necessary information to care for you and your particular condition.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal discs are robust and durable. A healthy spinal disc can absorb a greater impact than a spinal bone! So why do discs wear out? As discussed earlier, it usually takes a long time of wear and tear before the disk can dry up, split, and allow that gel to come out and put pressure on the nerve. The pressure from misaligned vertebrae in the spine will prevent that disc from moving correctly. That improper motion will keep that bulge from healing properly. Spinal decompression therapy is a critical part of your recovery.
Spinal decompression therapy is one facet of our office’s comprehensive plan to heal your damaged discs. Spinal decompression therapy is a 20-visit protocol. There is a specialized treatment table where you lie. If we are doing spinal decompression on your lower back, then we will apply a comfortable harness around your lower back and pelvis. There will be another part of the table that supports your upper body and keeps it stable. If you are receiving spinal decompression therapy for your neck bulging discs, there is a special headpiece that attaches to the motor. It is a very comfortable way to help open up those joint spaces in the neck and allow those discs to get less pressure and heal faster. Many patients find it so relaxing that they fall asleep on the table.
On a specialized decompression table, a computer controls a motor that gently pulls on your lower back or neck. This gently creates space for the discs to open. It is so soothing and relaxing. Taking that pressure off those nerves and discs is wonderful. This allows the disc to heal from the inside out. Taking that pressure off the discs allows those damaged fibers to recover. It takes time, though. This is why there are 20 visits in this protocol. You didn’t get this way overnight, and you won’t get better overnight. Patients typically report feeling results within the first few visits. More dramatic results are seen over time.
Statistically, spinal decompression therapy has an 86% success rate. With the inclusion of other treatments we offer in our office, our results are even better. Due to the slow-healing nature of disc problems, these additional therapies can dramatically speed up healing. Dr. Koch (our clinic director) has had some pretty big spinal traumas over the years and has found tremendous success using the spinal decompression table. He has been restored to maximum function and, to this day, enjoys a very active lifestyle, including trail running, yoga, scuba diving, pickleball, and other sports with his wife.
FX 405 Cold Laser Therapy
Photobiomodulation is a broad term. It includes red light therapy, infrared therapy, ultraviolet light, and others. They are of varying benefit. But the absolute tip of the spear is cold laser therapy, and the best available is the Erchonia FX 405 Cold Laser. As the only laser in the country with FDA market clearance for chronic low back pain, it has been proven to be a fast healer. Also, the market is cleared for full-body nociceptive pain; FX 405 Cold Laser Therapy is an essential partner in the overall success of treating complicated disc problems.
Solar panels capture sunlight and generate energy. Your cells do the same. Our Erchonia cold lasers shine red and violet light on your body, and you generate energy. This energy, known as ATP, enables you to function more efficiently and recover more quickly. Cold laser therapy is painless, non-thermal, and therefore completely safe with zero side effects. It is considered ‘cold’ because it does not create heat. It doesn’t feel cold at all.
We have been using cold laser therapy since 2011, and we are one of the few offices in Arizona to offer the proven Erchonia FX 405. With great success, we have used cold laser therapy on over 10,000 patients.
PEMF 120 Pulsed Electro Magnetic Field Therapy
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, or PEMF, is a highly effective treatment for musculoskeletal problems. Although the name sounds like electrical stimulation, no electricity is involved in the treatment. It is an electromagnetic wave that safely passes through your body. It feels like a tapping sensation or a “massage for your nervous system.” This PEMF energy wave helps heal the spinal discs, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, and reduces muscle spasms and inflammation.
PEMF works in many ways. Our PMT120 units increase the circulation into the disc and surrounding tissues. This increases blood flow deep into the discs, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. This results in increased oxygen and nutrients, which your body needs for healing. Every cell has an electrically charged cell wall. PEMF will increase the charge to this wall, resulting in a healthier healing response. All pain signals are reduced, and inflammation goes down. This ultimately leads to improved healing, better night’s sleep, and a restoration that helps you get back into your daily life! This is all done without any needles or surgical intervention.
Shockwave Therapy
Tight muscles, adhesions, and scar tissue will prevent the neck or low back from moving correctly. This slowly wears you out and eventually allows the disc to bulge or herniate onto nerves. These choked nerves can become very painful. Shockwave therapy helps loosen tight muscles and spots, improving joint motion and ultimately healing the discs.
Shockwave uses gentle sound waves (not electrical) to stimulate the injured areas and help them heal more quickly. It will bring more blood and nutrients into the tight muscles.
Our shockwave technicians will apply the pressure/sound wave around the affected area. It is not used on the disc itself; the shockwave therapy will be placed over the tight, restricted regions. These knots and trigger points will soften and relax again, reducing irritation to the disc and nerves, allowing your body to heal faster.
Common Causes of Disc Injury in Peoria, AZ
Bulging Discs
A bulging disc is a cushion that exists between the spinal vertebrae that has pushed out of its normal space in the vertebral column. Bulging discs are a common condition that becomes more prevalent as we age. Bulging discs typically remain pain-free at first, but as time goes on, the outer fibrous part of the vertebral disc becomes weak, and the soft inside part of the disc can bulge against a nerve. This can cause intense pain, tingling, and numbness.
Often, the bulging disc remains asymptomatic for years. Discs themselves can hurt, and they can also press on nerves. That is often described as a ‘pinched nerve’. In addition, other symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling, or numbness are often present. Before we start treating your bulging disc, we conduct a preliminary examination to provide you with the best treatment options and develop realistic goals for your recovery.
Degenerative Disc Disease
The process of developing Degenerative Disc or Degenerative Joint disease is typically painless. The symptoms tend to show up after years or even decades of ‘wear and tear’ finally cause enough damage to cause symptoms. The typical symptoms include:
- Joint Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range Of Motion
- Joint Aches
- Radiating Pain
Herniated Disc
There are many levels of damage to your discs in your spine. Herniated discs typically start out as bulging discs and can worsen into extruded discs. These may all be helped under our roof. Disc problems are a common condition that can cause neck or back pain. A Herniated disc can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in an arm or leg. The spine is made up of a series of individual bones called ‘vertebrae’, and between the bones are IVDs or Inter Vertebral Discs (‘discs’). The disc is a flexible yet strong, cushion-like structure that serves as a cushion and protector for the spine’s joints. When the disc is damaged, you may get a herniated disc or bulging disc, causing the “jelly-like” inner part of the disc to push through the tough exterior of the vertebra, resulting in a herniated or extruded disc.
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7717 W Deer Valley Rd #135, Peoria, AZ 85382
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a spinal disc, and what does it do?
Spinal discs are soft but durable cushions between the bones/vertebrae of your spine. Each disc has a sturdy outer ring and a gel-like sensor. They help your spine bend, rotate, twist, and move through a full range of motion while also protecting the nerves that exit between each side of the disc.
How do I know if my back or neck pain is actually a disc problem?
Most, but not all, disc problems will cause a deep pain that can be sharp and very achy. They typically radiate pain into the shoulder, arm, or hand, or, for the low back, into the buttock, hip, or legs. It may even make it to your toes. It can also cause numbness, burning, tingling, or swelling in the spine, arm, or leg. It may also weaken the arm or leg. A chiropractor can perform a detailed exam or order an MRI to confirm if the disc is involved.
What’s the difference between a bulging disc, a herniated disc, a slipped disc, and a ruptured disc?
The degrees of disc damage can vary. A bulging disc means the gel has pushed outward, but the strong fibrous wall is still intact. A herniated or ruptured disc means the inner gel has broken through that sturdy outer wall. It can push on nearby nerves, creating significant pain. A slipped disc is a common term, but that is not a proper diagnosis. Usually, when you feel like your disc has “slipped”, the gel has likely protruded out and has created a disc herniation.
Again, a chiropractor can help determine the degree of disc damage and offer natural ways to heal it.
Can a damaged disc heal on its own, or is it entirely unrepairable?
Many disc problems improve and can heal with enough time and the proper conservative care. While discs don’t generally “grow back,” we have witnessed disc height restoration in some patients over the years. Chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, cold laser therapy, and PEMF therapy all help support disc health, accelerate healing, and ultimately increase the likelihood of restoring function and healing the joint space.
How do I know if my disc problem is severe or an emergency? Do I need surgery right away?
The most prominent symptom that you need to be concerned about is loss of bowel or bladder control. This is a red flag that would indicate you need to get to the emergency room ASAP. While most disc problems are not surgical emergencies, severe weakness in the arms or legs, or intense pain after a significant trauma would require that we determine the level of damage pretty quickly. An MRI may be in order. The vast majority of disc injuries can be managed safely by a qualified Chiropractor or other qualified healthcare provider.
I don’t want surgery. What are some natural treatment options for disc problems?
Many people respond well to conservative chiropractic care. If Chiropractic care alone doesn’t resolve the issue, other non-surgical options include spinal decompression therapy, cold laser therapy, PEMF therapy, and FX 405 therapy, all of which have been proven effective in restoring complete function in many people.
Do chiropractors work alongside other doctors and physical therapists?
While every profession has its own angle on patient treatment, chiropractic adjustments have long been a patient favorite. Our office recommends a multifaceted approach. Physical medicine, exercise and stretches, medical interventions when necessary, physical therapy, etc., are all options evaluated.
Our office “plays well with others“. Whatever is in the patient’s best interest is what the patient is recommended.
What can I do at home to help my discs be healthy?
Consistent good daily habits will help discs maintain their health. Posture modification is super necessary. Especially when sitting at work or driving. If your mattress is more than seven years old, consider purchasing a new one.
How old is your pillow? That should be newer as well. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, and stand up and move at least once per hour. Core exercises, stretching, and routine Chiropractic adjustments help to keep discs hydrated and healthy.
If I go to a chiropractor, don’t I have to go forever?
This is a common question. The non-surgical road to recovery can be intensive. It takes time for the discs to become damaged, and it takes time to get them better. Once you reach your point of maximum function and restoration, many patients often choose an occasional maintenance visit to keep everything in tiptop shape. This isn’t necessary for everyone, but many people find it extremely helpful for extended vitality.
$99 New Patient Special
Includes Consultation & Exam, MRI Review, X-Rays, Dr’s. Report Of Findings (Day 2). Must mention this special. Some exclusions may apply. Not valid for Medicare, Auto/Personal Injury, Worker’s Compensation.