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HERNIATED DISC What we call a herniated disc is the protrusion of part of the spongy nucleus of the intervertebral disc. This
disc is the bearing between one vertebra and the next. When the pulpy
part is pushed out of its proper position, it compresses the nerve
roots, creating a mechanical conflict that results in pain.We have observed that most people suffering from herniated discs have a severely tilted pelvis and marked contractions in the lumbar region. The intervertebral discs are like shock absorbers that reduce the stresses on the spinal column and support extremely high loads, provided the force is spread over the entire surface of the disc. It has been calculated that if we hold a 10 kg weight with an outstretched arm, the load on the intervertebral discs reaches 800 kg. If the pelvis is tilted, or if there is scoliosis, the vertebrae do not spread the force over the full surface of the disc, but only over a part of it. The situation worsens further if there is marked lumbar lordosis, because the bearing surface becomes extremely small. The consequences are easy to imagine: over time, one or more discs deteriorate, creating the familiar problems. The muscular tensions that have developed owing to the misalignment of the Atlas and the consequent tilting of the pelvis grip one or more vertebrae in the lumbar region like a vice. The intervertebral discs exchange waste products for nutrients by a process of osmosis. This process takes place because of the changes in pressure within the intervertebral disc, generated by the movement of the spinal column. When the asymmetrical and contracted muscles grip a vertebra like a vice, its movement may be too limited and the pressure on the disc may be significantly increased. Consequently, there is an excessive reduction in the range of pressures necessary for the osmosis process. The result is that the intervertebral disc receives fewer nutrients and less water, which is essential for the correct elasticity and consistency of the disc. The constant and permanent increased pressure exerted on the disc is not even alleviated by lying down, and may compromise the phase of regeneration of the intervertebral disc, which normally takes place during the hours of night. With the passing of the years, the discs “dry out”, losing their elasticity. This further aggravates the situation. t is possible to surgically remove the broken part of the disc, or more commonly the pulp of the nucleus of the disc, which is putting pressure on the nerve roots that exit the spinal canal behind the disc. This type of operation is not without risk, and may give rise to complications and chronic pain, as observed in a number of people. The ATLANTOtec® treatment allows a less marked tilting of the pelvis and an improvement of the posture. The consequent better distribution of loads on the intervertebral discs and the reduction of the muscular contractions are favourable to a spontaneous process of resolution of the hernia, and reduce the risk of successive herniations. The ATLANTOtec® method is particularly indicated for the PREVENTION of herniated discs, or for hernias that are still in the initial phase. The treatment is aimed at resolving the cause rather than the problem itself, so for hernias at a very advanced stage it is often necessary to intervene with more targeted therapies. This new, non-invasive therapy has been available for some time: Spinemed.
Spinemed
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