Will My Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own in Vacaville

Your body is capable of healing itself even after enduring the most severe injuries diseases, including a herniated disc in Vacaville. However, some of the information can be misleading especially when you think that a herniated disc will heal on its own just because our bodies can repair damaged tissues.

The way a herniated disc heals on its own will depend on variables like your age, cause of the herniation, and the care and/or treatment used to support the healing process.

With that in mind, read the following information to understand how a disc herniates and the factors that impact the healing process.

What is a herniated disc in Vacaville?

The vertebrae in your spine contain discs in between, wherein they are designed to absorb pressure and allow you to move freely. These discs are built with a strong yet flexible fibrous outer layer and a cushiony, gel-like inner layer. This composition gives the discs the ability to do their job.

A disc can herniate when the outer layer cracks or weakens, thus making the inner gel bulge out. There are also cases where the outer layer tears and the gel leaks. The outer layer may remain intact, however, and push out together with the gel.

When the bulging disc or leaking gel puts pressure on the spinal nerves, that is the time when the pain starts developing. The gel can also trigger inflammation that could add up to your pain.

How does a disc become herniated?

As we age, the outer layer undergoes natural degeneration from daily wear and tear. Additionally, the soft inner layer containing water starts to dry out. Dehydration can make the discs less flexible and vulnerable to damage.

Disc herniation is usually due to age-related changes, but young adults can also suffer from a bulging disc. You can experience injury during intense athletic activities, or you may develop a herniation from any activity that involves repeated bending or twisting in your lower back.

These are the other factors known to put you at risk for a herniated disc:

• Gender: Men are twice at risk compared to women.
• Weight: Having a few extra pounds on you can put stress on your discs.
• Occupation: If your work requires a lot of lifting, pulling, and bending, then you increase your risk.
• Time spent sitting: If you remain seated for a long time, then it can put excess pressure on the discs.
• Smoking: Smoking regularly can accelerate disc degeneration since it limits the circulation of oxygen in your body.

Can a herniated disc heal on its own?

Some people have reported that their symptoms have subsided, but that does not mean your disc has healed. You can feel better while the damage or weakness still remains. Or your disc can completely heal, it just takes time for the protruding material to be resorbed by your body.

Age-related dehydration and degeneration are the type of damage that will not heal on their own. If you are still young, suffered an acute or repetitive injury, and follow your spinal treatment plan, then the torn outer layer may heal itself.

With proper treatment, 90% of patients with a herniated disc will achieve pain relief and improve movement within six weeks. If the symptoms persist after six weeks, then the herniation might recur.

The bottom line is that whether your herniated disc fully heals or not, it is best to find relief through proper treatment for your spine. You can start by visiting us here at Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA to get treatment such as spinal decompression. Just set up an appointment by dialing (707) 474-5688 and get treated today!