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Spine Conditions A-Z

More Disc Tear Information

Disc Tear


What is a Torn Disc?

The term disc tear, or torn disc, generally refers to a tearing of the disc’s annular tissue, the outer layer of the spinal disc. Disc tear is typically caused by a combination of disc degeneration and trauma. When this combination occurs, the central disc material (nucleus) often moves into the torn area of the outer layer of the disc, forming an interpositional disc herniation. A disc tear could also allow for the nucleus to move through the torn disc to the outside of the disc annulus, causing a disc herniation.

How do I know if I have a torn disc?

Patients who show signs of a torn disc can feel a great deal of pain. Numbness, tingling, and weakness are also common symptoms of a torn disc.

Is a torn disc the same as a herniated disc?

A disc tear is considered a herniated disc when the inner disc material (nucleus) protrudes through a tear and extends to, or through, the outer layer (annulus). When a tear evolves into a herniation, disc tear symptoms can be especially painful.

Are there exercises for a torn disc I can do to relieve pain?

Exercises for a torn disc may help improve disc tear symptoms. There are several exercises that may help relieve your pain. Click here to view exercises for a torn disc.

Can I see a chiropractor for a torn disc?

You can use complementary and alternative medicine along with standard or conventional care to treat neck and back pain caused by a torn disc. Although no large studies have proven the effectiveness or safety of seeing a chiropractor for a torn disc, chiropractic manipulation may help some people. You are welcome to talk to us about the potential benefits and risks before seeing a chiropractor for a torn disc.

Are there physical therapy for a torn disc treatments plans?

Yes. We may even recommend physical therapy for a torn disc to you if you are suffering from a disc tear. Physical therapy for a torn disc includes range of motion stretches and exercises designed to minimize the pain of a torn disc.

Are You a Candidate for Disc Tear Surgery?

If non surgical disc tear treatment fails to reduce your pain and other symptoms, you may be a surgical candidate. Our simple 3 step candidacy checking tool can get you started on a path to recovery in just minutes.

Begin 3 Step Diagnosis Process

Need assistance, or for answers to any questions you have please contact us now or call (877) 272-4535.