Back Pain Explained: Understanding Degenerative and Herniated Discs

If you’re experiencing back pain, understanding what’s actually happening in your spine is crucial for getting the right treatment. Two of the most common disc problems we treat are degenerative disc disease and herniated discs—and they’re quite different.

Degenerative Disc Disease: The Gradual Process

Degenerative disc disease develops over time as your spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity. Think of it like the natural wear and tear that happens to your car over the years. This process can cause:

• Chronic stiffness in your back
• Mild to moderate pain
• Reduced flexibility

Aging is the primary factor, but poor posture, repetitive strain, and previous injuries can speed up the process.

Herniated Discs: The Sudden Problem

A herniated disc happens when the soft inner material of a disc bulges or leaks through the outer layer. This is often a more acute issue that causes:

• Sharp, localized pain
• Pain radiating down your arms or legs (if nerves are compressed)
• Numbness or tingling in your extremities

Herniated discs typically result from sudden injury, improper lifting, or weakness in an already-damaged disc.

How We Treat Each Condition

Here’s the good news: chiropractic care can be highly effective for both conditions, and it’s tailored to what your spine actually needs.

For Degenerative Discs:

• Gentle spinal adjustments to maintain mobility
• Posture correction to reduce daily strain
• Exercises that strengthen supporting muscles
• Strategies to prevent further degeneration

For Herniated Discs:

• Careful adjustments to relieve nerve pressure
• Traction therapy when appropriate
• Targeted exercises to reduce inflammation
• Low-force techniques when needed

Many of our patients avoid surgery entirely through consistent chiropractic care and the right exercises.

Supporting Your Spine Between Visits

We’ll also teach you supportive measures you can do at home, including stretching routines, core strengthening exercises, and lifestyle adjustments that protect your spine. Heat and cold therapy can provide additional relief when you need it.

Early Intervention Makes a Difference

The earlier you address disc problems, the better your long-term outcomes. We’ve been serving Hardin County since 2005 and Larue County since 1998, and we’ve seen time and again how proactive care prevents small problems from becoming major ones.

Our Honest Approach

We’ll always be straightforward with you about what chiropractic can and can’t do for your specific condition. If we think you need a different type of specialist—like an orthopedist or neurologist—we’ll tell you and help coordinate your care. We’re happy to work alongside other providers when that’s what’s best for you.