Disc Herniations 101: Sciatica, Radiating Back Pain, Neck Pain & Chiropractic Katy, TX

This is a brief overview of the causes , symptoms, and our unique approach to back pain relief in Katy, TX.

Understanding Disc Herniations and Sciatica

Disc herniations can be painful. They are very common and one of the most common issues that we see at Cornerstone Pain & Wellness. The most common symptoms we see are:

Back or Neck Pain
Pain in a limb such as the arms or legs
Numbness & Tingling that can range from a portion of the affected limb or the entire limb.
Pain that ranges from mild to severe.
Weakness in the affected limb
More pain in certain postures

The pain caused by disc herniations is caused by contact with the nerve. Some call this a “pinched nerve.” The term for this is radiculopathy. Another common term for this in the low back is termed “sciatica.”

At Cornerstone Pain & Wellness in Katy, TX, We have dedicated a combined 35 years to providing effective, non-surgical treatments for these conditions, helping countless patients avoid the need for invasive surgery.

What Causes Disc Herniations?

At the core of our spine are intervertebral discs that act as cushions between the bones. A disc herniates when its outer layer weakens, allowing the inner material to protrude, which can irritate nearby nerves. This irritation is what causes the pain associated with herniated discs. While severe injuries can lead to herniations, often, simple daily activities are the culprits. It can be as simple as bending over to pull up your sock or pick up a pencil, or turning your head to look in your blind spot.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of a herniated disc can range from localized pain at the site of the herniation or can travel down the arm or leg. A proper exam will determine where and how severe the disc injury may be.

We utilize X-rays to determine the level of damage to the spine. We also use MRI to confirm the level and severity of the injury. Some patients can’t handle an MRI because you have to lay still for several minutes to get an accurate result.

Cornerstone Pain & Wellness utilizes a comprehensive approach to ensure a precise diagnosis, guide out tailored treatment plans.

First-Line Treatments and Their Limitations

Initially, most patients will seek help at an urgent care or an emergency room. This is a common sense approach since you are in so much pain. It just makes sense.

Most likely, the emergency care will prescribe anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers and they may order an MRI, however most centers are not equipped to correct this problem but only to get you out of pain.

The long term use of pain medications can lead to complications and rarely correct the underlying problem, which is the disc herniation. Without proper treatment, the herniation can continue to aggravate the nerve, leading to recurrent pain episodes.

Second-Line Treatments

The second level of care is usually a steroid injection or an epidural steroid injection (injected into the spine at the level of the herniation). The purpose of this is to decrease the inflammation on the nerve. This is not a bad idea in severe cases, however the underlying problem is still not corrected.

There is also a surgical option. This should always be a last resort due to the risks associated with spinal surgeries. Once you get a procedure done, you can’t get it undone. There is a time and place for surgery, however you should exhaust your options before considering this. A good surgeon will make you aware of this.

Chiropractic Care and Non-Surgical Interventions

Cornerstone Pain & Wellness specializes in non-surgical interventions that target the root cause of disc herniations. Spinal decompression and chiropractic adjustments play a pivotal role in our treatment strategy, aimed at relieving pressure on the affected nerve and realigning the spine for long-term relief. Additionally, therapies such as laser therapy and muscle stimulation support the healing process by reducing pain and promoting muscle recovery.

It’s important to correctly rehabilitate the muscles around the spine to make sure that they are strong and supportive of the spine so that this doesn’t happen again.

Real-Life Success Stories and Why Choose Cornerstone Pain & Wellness

With hundreds of successful treatments under our belt, we have developed protocols that work. We at Cornerstone Pain & Wellness have a great track record for success for those suffering from disc herniations, sciatica, and radiating neck and back pain in Katy, TX. Our holistic, patient-centered approach has garnered over 300 five-star reviews, attesting to their commitment to helping patients return to a pain-free, active lifestyle without the need for surgery.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

If you're struggling with sciatica or disc herniation, don't let pain dictate your life. Contact Cornerstone Pain & Wellness for a consultation to see if we can help. Our non-surgical, conservative approach to pain management has transformed the lives of countless individuals, and you could be next. Don't wait for relief; take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free life today.

Schedule an Appointment

Cornerstone Pain & Wellness is dedicated to providing the highest quality chiropractic care for back pain, sciatica, and disc herniation patients in Katy, TX. Our approach combines advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to address the root cause of your pain. Visit our website or call us to book your consultation and discover the path to recovery.