Bulging, Herniated Discs

Dr. Strasser is a disc specialist with advanced training in Cox flexion distraction, a gentle, non-thrusting, research-based protocol for the non-surgical treatment of neck and low back disc injuries.

What Is The Treatment For Disc Injuries?

Dr. Strasser is a specialist in Cox Flexion Distraction, a gentle, non-surgical protocol for treating disc injuries, including bulging, protruding and herniated discs of the low back and neck. Disc injuries are often accompanied by leg or arm pain, sciatica, and numbness and weakness. Dr. Strasser has over 20 years of successfully treating patients with disc Injuries. Neurosurgeons and neurologists recommend conservative care prior to even considering surgical intervention.

How Does Dr. Strasser Diagnose Disc Injuries?

Dr. Strasser diagnoses disc injuries with a comprehensive evaluation including chiropractic and neurological findings. An MRI imaging study is obtained, or past studies are evaluated, along with x-ray studies and laboratory findings as indicated.

What Is A Spinal Disc?

Discs are made up of a circle of fibrous rings with gelatinous center that is essential to the amazing architecture of our spine. All the ways we can move our spine depends on our discs. Discs act as shock absorbers and cushion the loads we put on our neck and back.

What Is A Disc Injury?

Disc injury occurs when the gelatinous center of the disk breaks through the fibrous rings that surround it. The dehydrated disc flattens and pushes outward. Discs can bulge (protrude or “slip”) and press against a nerve. Disc herniation occurs when the center of the disc breaks through the fibrous rings. Most disc injuries occur in the neck and the low back.

How Do We Injure Our Discs?

A sedentary lifestyle contributes to disc dehydration and increased pressure in the disc. Sudden heavy loads or repetitive activities can critically injure an already dehydrated disc. Imaging (MRI) studies of the spine indicate the beginnings of spinal degeneration in our 20’s. Smoking decreases oxygen to the disc. Lack of conditioning and restrictions in spinal joint motion contribute to mechanical problems that impact the disc. A family history of disc injuries is a risk factor.

What Causes The Pain Of A Bulging, Herniated, Ruptured Disc?

As the disc bulges against the spinal nerve, or herniates, a zone of inflammation is created which causes pain, including leg pain and sciatica with low back discs, and arm pain accompanying neck discs. Disc material pushing against the nerve causes nerve compression which affects strength and sensation in the extremities. Cox flexion distraction protocol effectively treats disc related pain.

Dr. Strasser is always available to answer questions you may have regarding herniated, bulging discs in the neck and low back.