Are there complications of disk herniations?
Since the symptoms associated with herniated disks are caused by increased pressure around a nerve root, additional pressure can cause severe damage to the nerve. In extreme cases, the pressure can cause equine syndrome whereby the extensive pressure increase will cause loss of bowel or bladder control, significant and increasing pain, and a loss of sensation in the inner thigh and back of legs. This is an emergency medical situation that requires surgery. How are herniated disks treated? Most disk herniations can be treated through conservative methods that involve reducing stress to the disk, relieving muscle spasms, and increasing joint motion. Light exercises and stretches prescribed by your healthcare provider will speed recovery and prevent future problems. Chiropractic therapy will improve the joint motion, will relax the muscles, and will reduce pressure on the disk. Distraction therapy, which involves directly taking pressure off the disk and reducing pressure on the nerve roo
