What is Hernia Pain?
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue that surrounds it. Hernias can occur in many different areas of the body, including the abdomen, groin, and chest. One of the most common sources of hernia pain is an inguinal hernia, which occurs when a part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall in the groin area. This type of hernia is more common in men than women.
Signs and Symptoms of Hernia Pain
Hernia pain can vary in severity and location, depending on the type and size of the hernia. Some individuals with a hernia may not experience any pain at all, while others may experience mild to severe discomfort. The pain may be constant or intermittent, and it may worsen when you are physically active or lift heavy objects. In some cases, a hernia may be accompanied by other secondary symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and difficulty passing gas or having bowel movements.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Hernia Pain
The upper cervical spine, made up of seven stacked vertebrae at the top of the spine, plays a crucial role in supporting the head carriage and allowing for proper neck and head movement. When one or more of these vertebrae are out of their natural alignment, it can have a cascading effect on the rest of the body, potentially leading to the development of a number of musculoskeletal issues, including hernia pain.Â
For example, a misalignment in the upper cervical spine can quickly introduce imbalances and muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Left untreated, these imbalances can put additional stress on the abdominal muscles and surrounding connective tissue, which can increase an individual’s chance of developing a hernia.
How Our Natural Hernia Treatment Works
Our natural treatment approach for hernia pain, the Blair Chiropractic Technique, focuses on rebooting the body’s natural healing mechanisms and restoring balance and alignment to the upper cervical spine. Your initial appointment with a Blair Chiropractic specialist will typically include an advanced imaging test, such as a cone-beam computed tomography scan or an X-ray, to determine if there are any misalignments in the upper cervical vertebrae that might be causing your symptoms.
If a misalignment is detected, your Blair chiropractor will perform a series of gentle adjustments to the neck to realign the upper cervical vertebrae and re-engage the body’s natural healing mechanisms. By realigning the upper cervical spine, Blair chiropractors can help to alleviate the strain on the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and abdomen, reducing hernia pain and promoting overall musculoskeletal health.
