Herniated Disc

Disc bulges, herniations, and degenerated discs can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life. Many individuals remain unaware of these conditions until they experience an acute episode of symptoms. Common symptoms associated with these conditions include:

• Pain and sciatica
• Numbness and tingling
• Weakness
• Fatigue and sleeplessness
• Muscle atrophy
• Loss of reflexes
• And more

Contrary to popular belief, surgery is not the only option for addressing these issues. The root cause of disc problems lies in structural weaknesses within the disc material. The intervertebral disc consists of the annulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus. The annulus fibrosus is a network of interwoven fibers that form the outer part of the disc, providing protection and enabling a wide range of movement. When these fibers become damaged, the inner portion (nucleus pulposus) may protrude into the spinal cord and nerves, leading to reduced nerve communication and various neurological symptoms.

The Underlying Issue: Forward Bones and Disc Weakness

The weakness of the disc fibers is primarily caused by the misalignment of the vertebrae. Over time, due to repetitive motions or trauma, the bones of the spine can shift forward and downward. This forward misalignment stretches the fibers at the back of the disc, progressively weakening them. As more bones become stuck in a forward position, the posture slumps forward, placing further strain on the discs. Eventually, this can result in a significant tear in the disc, known as a herniation. Additionally, the slumped posture creates tension within the spinal cord, causing a pull on the brainstem and exacerbating neurological symptoms. The tightness of the spinal cord over the bulge or herniation intensifies the symptoms.

The Limitations of Traditional Chiropractic and Bodywork

Conventional chiropractic and bodywork methods often fall short in providing long-term solutions for these issues. Their treatments can inadvertently push the body even further forward, exacerbating the underlying problem. Techniques that involve pressing on the back while lying face down and twisting the neck and low back areas can be particularly detrimental for individuals with disc herniations or bulges. The delicate and damaged fibers of the disc cannot withstand this twisting action, potentially worsening the condition. Moreover, the anatomical structure of the disc’s fibers makes it particularly vulnerable to twisting motion.

The Role of Internal Scar Tissue and the ABC Technique

When significant injuries occur, the body responds by building internal scar tissue within the spine. The presence of this scar tissue further contributes to the tension within the spinal cord and brainstem, causing stiffness over time. The ABC technique is the only bodywork approach that incorporates conservative methods to address and remove this internal scar tissue. By targeting the root cause of the problem, the ABC methodology offers a unique opportunity for correction.