Understanding Vertebral Bulges and How to Treat Them

If you’ve ever had a bulging disc in your spine, then you understand the pain and discomfort it can cause. Vertebral bulges can be extremely painful and can lead to long-term spinal problems if not treated. Fortunately, at Newport Center Family Chiropractic, Dr. Mike Digrado has been helping patients recover from slipped and bulging discs for over 20 years. If you’ve been asking “what is a vertebral bulge?”, then we’re prepared to answer that question – and share how we can help you rid yourself of the pain through decompression therapy.

What is a vertebral bulge?

The vertebrae of your spine are cushioned by soft discs that act as shock absorbers. However, when one or more of these discs bulge, it can put pressure on your spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. Vertebral bulges mostly happen in the neck or lower spine, and are usually caused by age-related wear and tear, improper lifting techniques, or sudden impact.

What causes a vertebral bulge?

Several factors can contribute to the development of a vertebral bulge. Age is a primary determinant, as the discs in the spine naturally lose flexibility and elasticity over time, making them more susceptible to bulging. Prolonged periods of sitting, especially with poor posture, can exert excessive pressure on the lower spine and lead to disc bulging. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, which places additional strain on the spine. Physical activities involving repetitive lifting, bending, or twisting can also increase the risk of a vertebral bulge. In some cases, genetic predisposition plays a role, meaning that some people may be more susceptible to this condition than others.

How do I know if I have a vertebral bulge?

Diagnosing a vertebral bulge typically involves a series of steps. First, an expert chiropractor will perform a physical examination and assess your medical history. Symptoms of a vertebral bulge can vary depending on the location and severity of the bulge, but common signs include localized pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities, and muscle weakness.

If a vertebral bulge is suspected, further diagnostic tests such as an MRI or CT scan may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact location and size of the bulge. It’s crucial to seek professional help if you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, as early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for this condition.

How does Newport Center Family Chiropractic treat a vertebral bulge?

At Newport Center Family Chiropractic, we use a non-surgical and drug-free spinal decompression therapy to help patients who suffer from vertebral bulges in their spine. This treatment method is an FDA-approved therapy that can help you regain your normal life by relieving pain, reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and promoting healing.

During a typical spinal decompression therapy session here at Newport Center Family Chiropractic, our team of experienced wellness professionals, led by Newport Beach chiropractor Dr. Mike Digrado, will place a gentle traction force on your spine, which creates negative pressure in-between bulging discs. This pressure differential promotes the retraction of the bulging disc and allows for more space between your vertebrae. This process ultimately relieves pressure on the pinched nerves and reduces inflammation. This therapy is completely painless and relaxing, as most patients report feeling a pulling or stretching sensation similar to a massage.

The amount of spinal decompression therapy treatments that you need depends on factors such as the severity of your condition, how long you have had symptoms, and your overall health. At Newport Center Family Chiropractic, our team will create a tailored treatment plan that caters to your specific condition.

What is the importance of a tailored treatment plan?

A tailored treatment plan is of paramount importance when addressing a condition like a vertebral bulge. This is because every individual’s situation is unique, influenced by factors such as age, overall health, lifestyle, and the severity and location of the bulge. A personalized treatment plan takes into account these unique factors, ensuring the most effective and targeted approach to treatment. It also allows for adjustments to be made along the way, in response to the patient’s individual progress and changing needs. This flexibility and adaptability of a tailored treatment plan increase the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes and faster recovery.

What are the benefits of decompression therapy, even after vertebral bulge is corrected?

Decompression therapy does not just correct vertebral bulges, it also promotes an overall healthier spine. By creating more space between the vertebrae, it improves blood circulation in the affected area which aids in the healing process of any damaged discs. Furthermore, this therapy can help mitigate future spinal disc problems by maintaining spinal flexibility and reducing the stress on other parts of the spine. Regular decompression therapy sessions can also reduce the risk of disc re-herniation and provide a preventative measure against other potential back issues. Lastly, it can also relieve other symptoms that accompany vertebral bulges like numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Therefore, even beyond the correction of a vertebral bulge, decompression therapy can contribute greatly to a patient’s overall spinal health and mobility.

Why choose to work with Dr. Mike Digrado?

Working with Dr. Mike Digrado, who has over twenty years of experience administering decompression therapy, carries notable benefits. His extensive experience and in-depth knowledge in the field enable him to understand and address a broad range of spinal conditions effectively. His hands-on approach and dedication to patient care ensure every treatment plan is personalized to fit each individual’s needs. In his two decades of practice, Dr. Digrado has helped countless individuals manage pain and improve their quality of life. This track record not only speaks to his skills and expertise but also his commitment to helping patients regain their health and wellness. Furthermore, his continuous learning and adoption of the latest practices in decompression therapy mean that patients are always receiving top-of-the-line care. With Dr. Digrado, patients can feel confident and secure, knowing they are in the hands of a seasoned professional.

Vertebral Bulges Treatment in Newport Beach, CA

If you’re suffering from vertebral bulges, don’t wait until it becomes more serious and unbearable. At Newport Center Family Chiropractic, our experts can help you regain your mobility and alleviate pain with our non-invasive and inexpensive spinal decompression therapy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and we will be more than happy to help you on your path to optimal spinal health.