Herniated discs are a common type of back injury that can cause sciatica and symptoms like pain, muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling. If you’re suffering from arm, leg, or lower back pain, then your chiropractor in San Jose may tell you that a herniated disc is the source of your discomfort.
In most cases, herniated discs are a result of age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs. As you age, the cushioning discs between your spinal vertebrae can become drier and less flexible. These changes leave spinal discs more vulnerable to bulging and tearing. It’s also possible for improper lifting techniques and traumatic events to cause a disc to herniate.
In addition to age, there are a number of factors that can increase your risk of spinal disc herniation. Being overweight, for example, can put more stress on the discs of your lower back. Also, genetics can play a role and leave some individuals predisposed to this type of injury. Finally, if your occupation involves repetitive motions like bending, twisting, pulling, or lifting, then this increases your risk of herniating a disc.
