If you’ve been in an accident and have sustained a herniated disc injury, a nonsurgical treatment option would be to see a chiropractor. Our auto accident doctor in Shirley at New York Injury Associates can help create a specialized plan that will work best for you. A few treatment options are available, but the most common for herniated discs are pelvic blocking techniques. 

Herniated Disc

Our spine is made up of spinal discs. These discs are protective cushions that help the spine’s flexibility, allowing us to twist and bend as we like. They are simultaneously both soft and hard. They are made up of a tougher outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a soft gel-like center known as the nucleus pulposus. If the outer layer breaks, it allows the gel-like center to leak into the canal of the spine. This causes the vertebrae to encroach on the nerve roots branching off the spinal cord. It can occur anywhere along the spine but most commonly affects the lower back and neck region.

Causes of a Herniated Disc

  • The everyday wear and tear- Also known as degeneration, this is when our discs become worn out over time.
  • Injury- the sudden, jerking movement from a car accident can inflict too much pressure on the disc, causing it to herniate. You can also herniate a disc by not lifting properly or twisting your body beyond its natural ability.
  • The combination of degeneration and injury- This could be that your disc is severely weakened from everyday wear and tear. It is more prone to herniation in the event of an accident. Or because it’s weak, and even the slightest injury could cause a herniation.

Pelvic Blocking

Pelvic blocking is a chiropractic treatment that uses cushioned wedges placed beneath each side of the pelvis. Doing this draws the disc away from the nerve being affected. This technique allows the body to make the adjustments independently, without the help of a chiropractor.

This technique is a way to find a balance between the lower back and hips with a more moderate approach. It both treats and relaxes the muscles and ligaments naturally.

Local Auto Accident Doctor in Shirley

If you’ve been in a car accident and are suffering from lower back or neck pain, it may be a result of a herniated disc. Contact our auto accident doctor in Shirley and see if pelvic blocking techniques are the right treatment option for you today!