Breakthrough Non-Surgical Spinal Disc Treatment In KL

By Yama Zafer, D.C (Doctor of Chiropractic)

Our spinal disc care is through the efforts of our chiropractors combined with physiotherapists. CSC spinal disc treatment in KL is your best alternative to spine surgery. Get treated at our award-winning center today by calling us now!

Spinal Disc: An All Too Familiar Source Of Neck & Back Pain

The spinal Disc is the most overlooked structure in patients that suffer from neck pain or back pain. The spinal disc’s importance is only second to the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Therefore, the spinal disc has greater importance than the joints, muscles, or ligaments. The clinical teams of Chiropractic Specialty Center® have the expertise and technology to repair, rejuvenate, and even reverse some spinal disc damage without medication, injections, or spine surgery!

The clinical importance of the spinal disc is either ignored or even misunderstood by most. In our centers, spinal discs are rightly at the center of the treatments our spine patients get. We understand that fixing neck pain and back pain is impossible until you repair and fix the damaged tissues of a spinal disc. So, the vast majority of patients that suffer from a spinal disc disorder continue to suffer needlessly.

Chiropractic Specialty Center® provides award-winning chiropractic & physiotherapy from three locations in Kuala Lumpur:

Our Targeted Holistic Methods Of Spinal DiscTreatment Is Better

In short, our clinical teams consider the spinal disc as a source of pain was. Unlike others, we will not ignore it but rather provide targeted treatments aimed at.

At improving its function. Our centers offer you a holistic treatment geared towards identifying and correcting all spinal disc-related issues. Meaning, we will assess every aspect of your neck or back pain and render appropriate care to all tissues in need. In other words, we will treat muscles, ligaments, joints, and of course, your spinal discs.

Get Targeted Spinal Disc Treatment & Not Just Muscle Or Joint Therapy

We wish that most centers followed our advice and treat spinal disc patients holistically. But, unfortunately, most are just concentrated on the soft tissue. In other words, many centers focused their attempts solely on muscles and ligaments. Some were overzealous when it came to muscles and soft-tissue works. And as such, many that suffered from a spinal disc disorder were made worse. We have had many neck pain and back pain patients present after their condition was made worse through aggressive soft tissue or joint manipulations in other centers.

Contact The Best Chiropractic Center In Kuala Lumpur For Focused Neck & Back Treatment Today

If you suffer from a spinal disc condition: aggressive joint manipulations by chiropractors, osteopaths, or Chinese Medical Practitioners can make your condition worse. Thus so, the importance of having the spinal disc ruled out as a cause before treatments. However, many centers are ill-equipped or unable to detect spinal disc issues, especially if it is a new spinal disc problem. Hence, we encourage anyone with back pain to visit one of our centers and have their spinal disc thoroughly evaluated by an experienced clinical team with strong analytical and clinical background on the spine and spinal disc.

Our chiropractors work together with our physiotherapists in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Their skills, knowledge, and understanding to diagnose and identify the cause of your condition accurately are second to none. Get treated today by KL’s top-rated chiros & physios.

What Is The Best Treatment Option For Neck Pain, Back Pain, Slipped Disc & Spinal Disc Problems?

This section of our website was set up to help neck and back pain sufferers identify, detect, and understand spinal disc disorders. We know that many live far from our centers, yet they need help. Please use the information contained on this page to help you understand the essential details of a spinal disc. Keep in mind that this page is not meant to diagnose your condition; it merely provides you with information to understand the health issues you may be experiencing. We are here to help you live a healthy, active life.

We also ask all our visitors to share this page on their social media as many suffer from treatable back and neck issues. Please help us get this vital information to them before they choose a treatment center. The information in this section will help all identify the right centers from the rest.

Our centers have the experience and the technology to treat, repair, and even reverse severe spinal disc disorders. Our treatment of choice for those that suffer from a spinal disc disease is NSD Therapy®. Please visit our NSD Therapy® section on this site to get information about the best and most efficient non-operative spinal disc treatment: NSD Therapy®.

Learn the Benefits of CSC’s expert physiotherapy combined with evidence-based chiropractic in Kuala Lumpur.

The Human Spinal Column & Its Relations To The Spinal Disc

The Spine 

Our spine’s function is to bear the body’s weight and enable movement, both through the specialized structure known as the spinal disc. Spinal discs function and roles are better classified in the “Functions” tab on this page. There are 23 Spinal discs (also known as the intervertebral discs, spinal disks, or just discs) in the spine. The first spinal disc is between the axis (C2) and the third cervical vertebra (C3), and the last is between the fifth lumbar (L5) and the sacral base (S1). Spinal discs are collectively responsible for approximately 25% of the adult spine’s length (18 cm) and are progressively larger from above down.illustration of the spine shown

Function Of The Spine & Spinal Disc

Spinal Discs are highly specialized structures. Nothing in the human body is as unique as the spinal disc. It is a complex structure that carries out essential functions. A healthy, active lifestyle is impossible without having a healthy spinal disc. Let’s look at some of the functions that our spinal discs carry out daily.

  • Protection: Spinal cord and nerve roots Many internal organs
  • Point for Attachment: Ligaments, Tendons, Muscles
  • Structural Support: Head, shoulders, chest Connects upper and lowers body Balance and weight distribution
  • Flexibility and Mobility: Flexion (forward bending) Extension (backward bending) Side bending (left and right) Rotation (left and right) Combination of the above
  • Other: Bones produce red blood cells Mineral storage As evident, it is highly improbable to have a healthy, active life without a healthy well functioning spinal disc. Thus, the need to have regular check-ups, evaluations, and if need target specific treatments.

The Vertebra

Cross section of L4-L5 spinal disc & spinal Joint shown

Unlike other living species, the human vertebra is a weight-bearing structure designed for a biped; its characteristics, composition, and function are unlike any other. It is this fact that the human spine has been one of the most difficult structures to study. It was not until the advent of new technological breakthroughs such as the MRI that a thorough understanding of the spine took place. A vertebra is a scientific name given to a spinal bone. The very first vertebra is directly beneath the skull and the last one above the tailbone. In total, there are 24 spinal bones in the human spine, of course, not counting the tailbone.

The Vertebral Body

The vertebral body is the largest part of the vertebrae. They are somewhat cylindrical. The vertebral bodies are smallest in the neck and largest in the lower back. The Atlas (the first vertebrae in the neck) is the only vertebra with a body. There are 23 vertebral bodies (the first vertebra does not have a vertebral body). At the top and bottom of each vertebral body, there is a cartilaginous plate called the vertebral end-plate (AKA epiphyseal plate). The vertebral end-plates are part of, and securely attached to, the vertebral body. These vertebral end-plates are also a point of attachment to the spinal disc.

The vertebral body is responsible for the bulk of the vertebra and hence provides much of the weight-bearing. The body is in the anterior (front) portion of the vertebrae. It is the point at which the vertebral arch and the neural arch originate. The neural arch is in the back portion of the vertebral body and forms the boundary around the neural canal (AKA spinal canal). The arch is the term for the paired laminae and pedicles.

The Vertebral End-Plates

Each typical vertebra has two vertebral end-plates. These vertebral end-plates are on the top and bottom of each vertebral body. Due to its close relationship to the disc, the vertebral end-plates are considered part of the vertebral discs. It serves as a point of attachment for the intervertebral disc, but more importantly, the end-plates supply vital nutrients to the entire disc. In the human spine, there are 46 vertebral end-plates, sandwiching the disc from top and bottom.

The Intervertebral Disc Or Spinal Disc

The vertebral discs (spinal discs) are soft but sturdy pads that separate the bones of the spine (vertebrae) from one another. These highly specialized structures act as a ligament by holding the spine’s vertebrae together, a shock absorber, and as a pivotal point allowing motion. There are 23 discs in the human spine: 6 in the neck (cervical spine), 12 in the mid-back (thoracic spine), and 5 in the lower back (lumbar spine). A disc has three basic structures: The Nucleus Pulposus (AKA nucleus pulposa), the Annulus Fibrosus (AKA annular fibers), and the vertebral end-plate. Although their composition differs: three building blocks are standard: proteoglycan (protein), collagen (cartilage), and water.

Regions Of The Spine

Our spinal column (vertebral column) extends from the skull to the pelvis and comprises 24 moveable bones, the Sacrum and the Coccyx. The vertebrae are stacked on top of each other to form the spine. In the spine, there are three regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back). The sacrum and coccyx are the two regions that are not part of the spine, but collectively with the three areas of the spine form the spinal column (vertebral column). Let‘s take a closer look at each of these regions:

  • Cervical Spine
  • Thoracic Spine
  • Lumbar Spine

The Cervical Spine

The two parts of the cervical spine are the upper cervical region (C1 & C2) and the lower cervical region (C3 to -7). The occiput (C-O), also known as the occipital bone, is a flat bone that forms the back of the head. C1 is the term most often used for Atlas and C2 for the Axis.

The Atlas Or C1 Vertebrae

The first cervical vertebra is given its name because it supports the weight of the head. Its appearance is different from the other spinal segments. The Atlas is a ring-like structure that consists of two lateral (side) masses joined at the front and back by anterior (front) and posterior (back) arches.

The Axis Or C2 Vertebare

The second cervical vertebra is given the name Axis for its principal point of rotation of the head and the neck. Axis sits directly below the Atlas (first spinal segment). The head and the Atlas pivot around the axis. Axis is the strongest and the thickest of all the cervical vertebrae.

The Thoracic Spine

The thoracic vertebrae increase in size from T-1 through T-12. The thoracic spine has small pedicles, a long spinous process, and relatively large intervertebral foramen (neural passageways), which result in less incidence of nerve compression. The rib cage is joined to the thoracic spine posteriorly and the sternum anteriorly. At T-11 and T-12, the ribs do not attach and so are called “floating ribs.” The range of motion in the thoracic spine is limited due to the many rib-vertebrae connections and the long spinous processes.

The Lumbar Spine

The lumbar vertebrae vary in size from L-1 through L5 and bear much of the body’s weight. Hence, they are affected most by biomechanical stresses. In the lumbar spine: pedicels are longer and wider than those in the thoracic spine. However, the spinous processes are horizontal and square. The intervertebral foramen is relatively large, but the lumbar spine has the highest nerve root compression rate because of its increased mobility.

Joints, Muscles, Ligaments Of The Spine & Their Impact On The Spinal Disc (Intervertebral Disc)

→ The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

This ligament attaches from the axis. It is continuous with the membrane tectoria (ligament-like continuation of PLL that connects to the cranial dura mater). It runs down to the posterior surface of the first sacral segment. Unlike the anterior longitudinal ligament, the posterior longitudinal ligament is widest at the top (C2) and most narrow at the bottom. It also differs from the anterior longitudinal ligament in that it attaches to both the disc and a tiny portion of the vertebral body.

“Posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) is a strong ligamentous tissue that courses down the anterior aspect of the neural canal and is attached to the outer fibers of the spinal disc. Inside the spinal canal, the PLL is in close contact with the spinal dura mater. The loose areolar tissue separates the PLL from the Dura Mater. The Areolar tissue is the housing for the internal vertebral plexus of veins, highlighting yet another critical role or the PLL. Therefore, it becomes incumbent to fully assess any injury to the neck before shrugging it off as a simple sprain or strain. We have had many patients that wished they had this information years ago. So, please share this critical page with friends and loved ones, especially if they are injured.

Calcification Of The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

PLL or Posterior Longitudinal Ligament is of great importance as injury can result in thickened and even classifications, leading to agonizing pain and even disability. Thickening of the PLL ligament is common in untreated sports injuries or auto accidents. Thus, the importance of a proper evaluation by an expert clinical team familiar with the spine. As such, we encourage all that have had previous episodes of sports injuries or car accidents to check their neck and spine at one of our centers, especially if you have neck pain or neck discomfort. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with “cervical spondylosis,” the chances of having a calcified PLL are significant. We can help. The function of the posterior longitudinal ligament is to:

  • Provide a vertebra-to-vertebra connection.
  • Provide vertebrae to disc connection (above and below).
  • Stabilize and strengthen the already resilient spinal disc.
  • Protect the spinal cord from other spinal structures.

The posterior longitudinal ligament has a rich nerve supply. The most interesting of the nerve fibers is the pain-sensing nerve. This pain-sensing nerve fiber is a form of defense. It protects the spinal cord from compressive structures such as spinal discs or bone spurs. It does so by activating its delicate nerve fibers and alarming the individual of a harmful event. This pain-carrying nerve fibers often are the last line of defense the spinal cord has against an irritated, inflamed, bulged or herniated spinal disc.

Your Joints & Ligaments

No structure in the human body can function without a support structure. For the spinal disc, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments are the support structures. And for the spinal disc to operate at 100%, we need the support structure to function 100%. But, yet many ignore this simple fact. In our center, chiropractors and physiotherapists work side-by-side to ensure that every aspect of a given spinal condition is treated and made whole again. Our clinical team will spend lots of time evaluating and assessing your spine before formulating a treatment plan.

The muscles and ligaments that connect to your spine and even those that attach near the spine have a critical impact on your spinal health’s wellbeing. This section of our spinal disc page will shed light on all connective tissues your spine needs for proper function. Keep in mind that your body is as strong as its weakest link; thus, a weakness in any of the support structures in your spine will lead to spinal disc damage and even slipped disc (AKA slip disc or slipped disk). You can learn more about the harmful effects of spinal disc damage (degenerative disc disease) and disc herniation by visiting our website’s associated pages.

Before We Start Discussing The Connective Tissue (Muscles And Ligaments), Let’s Go Over Some Basic Information.

Ligaments are the fibrous band of tissue that interconnects the bones of the body. When these bones join through a fibrous tissue band, that connection is known as a joint (or articulation). We have compiled the joints and ligaments of the spine together because we must study them concurrently. A joint is not merely classified by its anatomical makeup but also its function, which depends on the ligaments of that joint. In this section, we will briefly cover the common type and ligaments of the spine.

The Vertebral Body Articulation

This articulation is a cartilaginous symphysis formed by the following three Ligaments:

  • The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament (ALL).
  • The Posterior Longitudinal Ligaments (PLL).
  • The Intervertebral Discs (IVD).

→ The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament

This ligament attaches to the vertebral bodies at the front. It begins at the axis (C2) and runs down to the first sacral segment. As it passes each intervertebral disc (spinal disc), it firmly attaches to it, hence providing a protective barrier for the disc. This ligament is most narrow at the top (C2) and widest at the bottom (S1).

CSC commonly encounters calcification of the ALL (Anterior Longitudinal Ligament AKA Anterior Common Ligament). They are often the result of familial predispositions is neglected injuries or wear and tear. Nonetheless, the condition can be quite painful, and the hallmark of diagnosis is a limited range of motion. In reality, it is similar to the PLL calcification, which we shall discuss in the box below.

Your Spinal Disc

The spinal disc (AKA disc or vertebral disc) is a spinal ligament. Your spinal disc is the most specialized ligament ever, connecting the spinal bones one segment at a time. It is a perfect design, flawless in every aspect. But yet injured due to our neglect and lifestyles. It is beneficial for all to notice daily actions, positions, and postures before damaging a disc or, worse, tearing it apart. Please call or visit one of our Center for more information on NSD Therapy®.

Our centers are the only authorized centers in Asia to render NSD Therapy®. Our methods of spinal care, as delivered through NSD Therapy®: can heal and repair the damage. But, there are limitations. Best to contact us right away before your spinal disc condition progresses. We can help even if others fail. If you suffer from a spinal disc disorder, try our advanced methods of spinal decompression methods today. You have nothing to lose except the pain!  The slipped disc treatment you get from our Chiropractors is second to none. You can count on it.

What Are Articular Processes

The articular processes of the spine are known as the zygapophyseal (meaning oval offshoots”) joints and in the lumbar as facet joints: a Synovial Articulation Plana (gliding joint). There are four articular processes on each typical vertebra (C3 to L5): two superior and two inferior articular processes.

The superior articular process of the vertebra below unites with the inferior articular process of the vertebra above. This unification is through a pair of capsular ligaments. The capsular ligaments are thin and loose to allow gliding motions while limiting the degree of movement. The capsular ligament is longer and looser in the cervical spine, allowing for greater mobility. As stated previously, the capsular ligament completely encloses the articular surfaces of the articular process (facets, zygapophyseal joints) surrounding its bony structures with a synovial membrane.

The synovial membrane is the internal lining of the capsular membrane. This lining is a membrane that produces synovial fluid necessary for joint lubrication, local phagocytosis, and nutrients.

The Importance Of Spinous Process

We have so far discussed the disc and some of the ligaments found near the spinal disc. Now, we need to move a bit towards the spinal muscles and shed light on joints and connections formed directly beneath your spinal muscles. Therefore, we will shift our discussion to the joints formed by the spinous processes of your spine.

For some, it’s hard to consider, or perhaps imagine, the spinous processes of the vertebral column as joints. So, before we get any further, let’s refresh our memories. As mentioned before, joints form when bony structures of the body connect through fibrous tissue bands known as the ligament. The spinous processes are all attached through a series of ligaments, which appropriately categorize them as articulations.

The alignment of spinous processes is of critical importance for the well-being of the spine and spinal disc. A misaligned spinous process is common in those that have scoliosis. We have encountered rotational misalignments in almost all our scoliotic patients. A misaligned spinous process or spinal bone is a subluxation and can be corrected if caught and treated early. When the spinous process of a vertebra (spinal bone) misaligns, it places enormous stresses on muscles, ligaments, and of course, spinal discs.

Our Clinical Teams Of Chiropractors & Physiotherapists Are Experts You Need For Proper Assessment And Evaluation To Ensure The Proper Alignment Of All Spinal Disc.

Visit one of our centers today for a healthier, more active life. The joint classification of the spinous process is cartilaginous syndesmosis. A cartilaginous syndesmosis is a slightly movable joint. The contiguous bony surfaces are united by an interosseous ligament, as in the tibiofibular articulation, radial-ulna articulation, and spinous process to spinous process articulations. There are three ligaments to consider:

  • Supraspinous Ligament
  • Interspinous Ligament
  • Ligament Nuchae

Supraspinatus Or The Supraspinous Ligament Of The Spine

The Supraspinous is a stable ligament that connects the spinous processes from the seventh cervical segment (C7) to the first sacral tubercle. The supraspinous ligament attaches at the apex of each spinous process and is the thickest in the lumbar spine. The Supraspinous Ligament serves as a point of origin for the Ligamentum Nuchae at the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra.

The Interspinous Ligament

The Interspinous ligament is a thin membrane-like ligament that connects adjacent spinous processes. The following are the attachment points:

  • It attaches to the entire length of each spinous process (from the root to the apex).
  • Posteriorly it is attached to the supraspinous ligament.
  • Anteriorly joins with Ligamentum Flavum.

Ligamentum Flavum is of vital clinical importance. It is often implicated in spinal disc disorders, especially disc herniation (slip disc). Our clinical team pays close attention to ligamentum Flavum often. The ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy worsened spinal disc disorder symptoms, leading to sciatica-like symptoms down the legs and even feet.

The Importance Of Ligamentum Nuchae

Ligamentum Nuchae arises from the supraspinous ligament at the apex of C7 and continues upwards, attaching to each spinous process, the Atlas tubercle, and the external occipital protuberance. It is a cord-like ligament that has a thin fibro-elastic septum. The septum divides the muscles of the neck into two sides. Nuchae is an important ligament for the cervical spine as it provides support for the neck while the head is in flexion, thereby decreasing muscular stress.

Disorder, malfunctions, or damage to the Ligamentum Nuchae has been shown to affect the severity and frequency of headaches & migraines, neck pain, and upper back pain. It may even cause a lack of energy, tinnitus, or dizziness. Our collaborated team of chiropractors and physiotherapists will assess your spine in its’ entirety to maximize the impact of each session. Rest assured, as our centers treat pain with Advanced Technology not found elsewhere.

All About The Lamina Articulation

The lamina-to-lamina articulation is a cartilaginous syndesmosis articulation. It is slightly moveable, much like the spinous articulation. The lamina connects through the ligamentum flavum, also known as the yellow ligament. The lamina to lamina articulations is perhaps one of the most overlooked yet important spinal articulations. While this is true for back or neck pain, it is imperative for those suffering from a spinal disc disorder such as a herniated disc, protruded disc, prolapsed disc (often referred to as “Slipped Disc” by the lay-person).

Our chiropractors and physiotherapists pay particular attention to this as it is a major pain source for those with spinal stenosis or hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum. If you suffer from these conditions, we are the experts that you need NOW.

What Is The Function Of Ligamentum Flavum?

Ligament flavum attaches from the inferior surface of one lamina to the superior surface of the lamina below. A “V” shaped ligament (left and right) uniting at the posterior margins next to the Interspinous ligament. Before discussing ligamentum flavum (or the yellow ligament), let’s take a look at the ligament’s essential characteristics.

  • Ligaments serve as a connecting point between two adjacent bony structures.
  • Prevents excessive motion
  • Protects the spinal joints from injury

Ligamentum flavum is the only elastic ligament in the human body. Unlike the other ligaments, it has contractile abilities. This ligament also serves as a protective barrier for the neural canal. The elastic and contractile abilities of the ligamentum flavum are evident during spinal flexion. The elastic and contractile abilities allow for separating the laminas and returning them to a normal state without folding on themselves. If ligamentum flavum ever folded on itself, it would compress the spinal dura mater or get caught.

However, our lives are full of stresses and even pragmatic events, all of which have consequences in the long term. These stresses can lead to changes in the Ligementum Flavum that affect our quality of life. The most significant change that occurs in Ligamentum Flaum is thickening or hypertrophy. Once this ligament thickens (hypertrophies), there will be consequences of a severe nature.

Some Have Difficulty Identifying Spinal Disc Disorders Involving Ligamentum Flavum

But, yet they claim to be experts. Well, that will not happen in one of our centers. Chiropractic Specialty Center®’s training and education programs are quite intensive, and we see to it that all our clinical teams are thoroughly educated and skilled. Hypertrophy of Ligamentum Flaum requires exact knowledge, skills, and even advanced technology. It is a hard condition to treat, but not impossible. It becomes impossible if you get your care from centers that don’t know how to handle it.

Having the correct treatment is the way forward. Spinal disc therapy or treatments will positively impact your health when the care you get is target-specific and based on an accurate diagnosis. We are the best chiropractic and physiotherapy Center in Malaysia: let us Help you Today! Our advice is to visit one of our centers and receive your care from an experienced clinical team of Chiropractors and Physiotherapists.

Articulations Of The Transverse Processes

As were the two previous articulations, the transverse joint is also a cartilaginous syndesmosis (slightly movable joint). In humans, the intertransverse ligaments are readily recognizable in the lumbar spine. In the cervical and thoracic spine, this ligament connects within the spinal musculature, and as a result, is difficult to recognize. These ligaments are provided to limit the degree of motion within this joint.

Clinical Significance Of The Lumbosacral Joint

This articulation possesses all the characteristics of a standard vertebral articulation. However, it is unique due to the sacrum being a false vertebra (atypical) and the fifth lumbar being unique. The following is a list of ligaments seen in the Lumbosacral join.

  • Spinal discs (Intervertebral discs)
  • Anterior Longitudinal Ligament
  • Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
  • Capsular Ligament
  • Supraspinous Ligament
  • Interspinous Ligament
  • Ligamentum Flava

The lumbosacral articulations’ intertransverse-like ligament is a well-developed dual ligament and is separately named the iliolumbar ligament. The Lumbosacral Articulation is the joint where the vast majority of those with back pain have issues. Often, ignoring back pain leads to scarring, adhesion, and even hypertrophy of the lumbosacral joint (facet hypertrophy) and its associated ligaments. The need for proper evaluation and care is paramount.

Chiropractic Specialty Center® has the technology and clinical collaborative teams of research-based chiropractors, clinical physiotherapists, and advanced technology. Our systems and spine care methods for slipped disc, sciatica, facet pain, and soft tissue disorder are second to none in Malaysia. Please don’t settle for less; visit us for the best non-operative means of treatment.

Significance Of The Iliolumbar Ligament & Scoliosis Treatment

This ligament attaches the fifth lumbar transverse process to the ilium crest, one on each side. This ligament is perhaps one of the most important ligaments when it comes to scoliosis correction without surgery. Centers that ignore this fact will certainly have limited success.

Some authorities consider this ligament as a portion of the iliolumbar ligament. It attaches the inferior margin of the fifth lumbar’s transverse process to the sacral base’s superior aspect and the sacral promontory. This is a paired ligament, one on each side. The lumbosacral and the iliolumbar ligament implications in those with spinal disc disorders and scoliosis are critical to the success of care you get. In our centers, we are the best when it comes to chiropractic or physiotherapy. Our centers are centers of excellence in chiropractic or physiotherapy. Don’t just take our word for it. Visit us and compare today.

Sacrococcygeal Articulation

The Sacrococcygeal articulation is a cartilaginous symphysis articulation formed by joining the sacral apex and the base of the coccyx bone. The following is a list of ligaments seen at the sacrococcygeal articulation:

  • Intervertebral fibrocartilage; a disc-like structure
  • Anterior sacrococcygeal ligament
  • Superficial posterior sacrococcygeal ligament
  • Deep posterior sacrococcygeal ligament
  • Lateral sacrococcygeal ligament (AKA Intercornual ligament)

Rib, Spine Joint & The Spinal Disc

The spine and the ribs unite to form a joint, and these joints are often a source of pain for many. Our ribs attach to the sternum and wrap around towards our spine; it forms two distinct joints with the spine. The costovertebral joints (Rib-Spine Joints) are even more important in those with a spinal disc issue or those with a scoliotic curvature of the spine. In scoliosis patients, the costovertebral joints are under enormous amounts of stress that ultimately lead to adhesions or scarring of the connective tissues surrounding this joint.

We always encourage everyone to get care from centers with the knowledge, experience, and technology needed to get you better fast. Why fast? Time is critical when dealing with damage, injury, or malfunction. The longer a condition is left untreated, the harder it becomes to correct. Therefore, you should only get care from centers that avoid wasting time, resources, or clinical efforts. Centers that offer holistic, meaning comprehensive spine and joint are best. In other words, visit us to discover excellence in Chiropractic.

Targeted Rib Treatment Is Critical To Recovery From A Cervical Or Thoracic Slipped Disc

The Costovertebral joint treatment or rehabilitative care at our clinical team renders for any joint is diagnosis dependent. Our methods of spine and joint care are diagnosis-specific and target to get you better fast. The rib attachment point to the spine is through articulations that require specialized means of care — these joints are linked to neck and upper back disorders of the spine or spinal discs. Of course, if you have scoliosis, you already explain the impact the ribs have on you. But, please continue reading this section to understand how critical the ribs are for those not informed.

To Make Learning Easy For You, We Have Divided Joints Into Two Separate Parts:

Rib head articulation. The Rib joint forms when the rib heads attach to either the costal facets or the coastal demi-facets. Three ligaments hold this joint together: the articular capsule, radiate ligament, and the intra-articular ligament. Costotransverse articulation. This type of articulation is in all but the last two articulations of the thoracic spine. Five ligaments hold this joint together: articular capsule, superior costotransverse ligament, posterior costotransverse ligament, ligament of the rib’s neck, and ligament of the tubercle of the ribs.

The rib-spine articulation is critical in many spine disorders, including but not limited to scoliosis, slipped disc, arthritis, degeneration. Rib articulation problems are always present in patients with spinal disc disorders of the cervical spine (neck). Unlike other chiropractic or physiotherapy centers, we pay close attention to rib articulation in every patient, even more so in those with spinal disc disorder. The costovertebral joint articulation is yet another example of the need to get care from a center with expertise, knowledge, and technology for the spine.

Do not limit your healing by getting subpar treatments from individuals, centers, clinics, and hospitals with limited abilities. Visit one of our centers to discover excellence in chiropractic as well as excellence in physiotherapy. Our centers have the experts, knowledge, and technology unparalleled by the rest.

The Clinical Significance Of The Costovertebral Joints On The Spinal Disc

But, many orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors, and physiotherapists ignore it or do little beneficial. The ignorance or the inability to give patients the comprehensive care they deserve is the most common reason for re-flare-ups of their conditions. Unfortunately, many centers are all too comfortable with the little that they do.

The so-called “mom and pop” centers with limited staff, technology are, for the most part, a wasted effort. So, if you suffer from neck pain, back pain, sciatica, scoliosis, or any other spine or spinal disc condition, consider Chiropractic Specialty Center®. Save your health, time, and your hard-earned money, and visit one of our centers before you waste them on the inexperienced, uneducated, poorly trained, or those that couldn’t be bothered if you got better or not.

At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, we are committed to excellence in chiropractic. We are not aware of a better center when it comes to excellence in chiropractic. Don’t settle for less; aim for centers that exceed excellence in chiropractic. Actions are louder than words. Judge us by our ability in excellence in chiropractic.

The Intervertebral Disc (Disc AKA Spinal Disc)

Spinal Disc Or Vertebral Disc

The Spinal Disc is a soft yet sturdy pad that separates the bones of the spine (vertebrae) from one another. These highly specialized structures act as shock absorbers, a ligament by holding the spine’s vertebrae together, and as a pivotal point allowing motion. Spinal Discs are at each segment except for the first and the second bone of the cervical spine.

There are 23 intervertebral discs, the first being between the axis (C2) and the third cervical vertebra (C3), and the last being between the fifth lumbar (L5) and the sacral base (S1). They are collectively responsible for approximately 25% of the adult spine’s length (18 cm) and are progressively larger from above down.Therapeutic Modalities The discs are strong ligaments that give shape to the spinal column by forming the secondary curves. In the lordotic curves (cervical and lumbar), the discs are slightly thicker at the anterior, whereas they are of uniform thickness in the thoracic spine. A spinal disc’s strength is further increased by the attachment of the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments. They also act as a powerful shock absorber to help protect the human body.top view of the intervertebral disc

The healthy, Adult Spinal Disc Is Considered The Largest Avascular Structure In The Human Body & It Consists Of Three Main Components:

  • The Vertebral End-Plates
  • The Annulus Fibrosus
  • The Nucleus Pulposus

Although their composition percentage differs, the following three structures are the building blocks a spinal disc needs:

  • Proteoglycan (protein)
  • Collagen (cartilage)
  • Water

The annulus is collagen, a tough fibrous tissue similar to the cartilage found in the knee. The nucleus is made mostly of proteoglycan produced by the cells within the spinal disc. The proteoglycan is designed to hold and trap water. In fact, due to their ability to soak and hold water, you could say that the disc is mostly water. Studies have shown that a healthy nucleus has 80% water and an annulus of 65% water.

Why Is The Annulus Fibrosus So Important?

It is in the peripheral portion of the disc. The annular fibers are the sturdy fibrous outer layer of the disc. This fibrous layer is a type 1 collagen and attaches to the vertebral end-plates. To further increase the already strong Annulus Fibrosus, individual collagen sheets are placed between the annular ligaments. These sheets are called lamellae: a cartilage-like substance.

Incidentally, this is the region that osteophytes (bone spurs) like to form. The very outer lamellae (or sharpie’s fibers) attach to each vertebral body’s spinal bones’ edges (ring apophysis). The inner lamellae are firmly attached to the vertebral end-plates.

How Are The Annular FIbers Situated?

There are approximately 15 to 25 concentric sheets of lamellae present within each disc. These sheets (lamellae) are positioned in successive rings and arranged in a unique configuration (running at 45-degree angles: giving it an ‘X’-like appearance). This unique arrangement has made the annulus robust enough to contain the highly pressurized Nucleus Pulposus.

The annulus is the only innervated portion of the disc. This innervation is through the Sinuvertebral Nerve and is present in the outer layers of the annular ligament. The Sinuvertebral Nerve is a mixed nerve that carries both the autonomic fibers (sympathetic) and the sensory (afferent) fibers. The sensory portion of this nerve is the part that is capable of carrying noxious (painful) stimuli. In other words, when the disc is under stress–either from an acute inflammatory reaction, irritation, or tears of the annulus fibrosus–this nerve gets activated, and that is why you feel the sudden sharp painful events. This type of pain is known as discogenic pain. In other words, it is a pain that originates from the spinal disc.

The Importance Of Annulus Fibrosus

The very outer layer of the Annulus Fibrosus has its blood supply. The middle layer and inner layers of the annulus, along with the nucleus, are completely void of blood vessels and considered avascular.

Tiny capillary beds embedded in the subchondral bone (end-pate) provide the middle annulus, inner annulus, and nucleus. This subchondral vascular network feeds the spinal disc almost in its entirety through diffusion.

In other words, the food your spinal disc needs are sucked in. But, before they can get sucked in, the cartilage above the spinal disc must be soaked in nutrients. Thus, the nutrients diffuse or “soak” their way through the vertebral end-plates and then are sucked into the spinal disc. This diffusion method is how the spinal disc cells obtain nutrients such as water, oxygen, glucose, and amino acids as required by the disc cells.

The gentle stretching and relaxing of a non-degenerate, healthy spine foster diffusion through a phenomenon called imbibition.

detailed cross section os vertebral disc

In the simplest terms, this is one method through which a normal healthy disc gets the vital nutrients needed. It is possible to induce Imbibition (will discuss later), but it occurs naturally. One method of natural imbibition is a phenomenon called Diurnal Changes.

Our bodies can expand and compress over a day. During the recumbency of sleep, the spinal disc loading reduces: so, they are relatively unopposed to swelling pressure, which results in the disc absorbing fluids and increasing in volume. In fact, the non-degenerated healthy spinal disc will expand some 20%, increasing our stature by 19mm. A 19mm change in size corresponds to a change of about 1.5mm in each lumbar disc’s height. And as such provides the much-needed explanation of why we are measurably taller in the morning.

What Is Imbibition? How does Imbibition Impact The Spinal Disc?

effects of axial load bearing shown

As mentioned earlier, the nucleus is the main protein called proteoglycan, which attracts water. Typically, discs compress when pressure is put on them and decompress when pressure is relieved. When a disc is compressed, its moisture content decreases, lifting away the compressive force normalized fluid levels (nutrient levels). This process happens in healthy discs. The change in the spinal disc’s water levels is the sole responsibility of the nucleus through a process called imbibition.

As mentioned earlier, discs are avascular. Imbibition is the method by which the nucleus acquires life-sustaining nutrients from the vertebral end-plate. Without such transfer, the discs in their entirety will degenerate and eventually will cease to function. Imagine a sponge filled with water. When the sponge is compressed, the water is forced out. By removing the compressive force, the water is sucked back into the sponge. This is imbibition, and it is precisely how the Nucleus Pulposus stays healthy and functions.

What Are The Functions Of The Nucleus Pulposus?

The water-rich (80% water), gelatinous, soft, pulpy, highly elastic, and highly pressurized central structure of the disc. The nucleus is proportionally larger in the cervical and lumbar spinal segments due to their greater mobility. It has three main functions:

  • To bear or carry the weight of the body.
  • To act as a pivot point; from which all movements occur
  • To act as a ligament and bind the vertebrae together

Vertebral End-Plate

The vertebral end-plate is a cartilaginous structure and is found at every spinal segment from C2 to L5. Each vertebra’s top and bottom are capped with a thin (approx. ¾ millimeter) cartilaginous pad called the vertebral end-plate. Despite their name, these vertebral end-plates are not part of the subchondral bone but are actively Interwoven into the disc’s annulus. For this reason and strong morphological similarities, the vertebral end-plate is considered part of the disc and not part of the vertebral body.

The adult vertebral discs are avascular structures (have no blood supply). The nutrients needed by the spinal disc are through the vertebral end-plate. The vertebral end-plates provide nutrients to the inner 2/3 of the annulus and the entire Nucleus Pulposus. These nutrients are diffused (soaked) into the disc from the endplates.

The end-plate’s concentration of water, proteoglycans, collagen, and cartilage cells mirrors that of a disc. The center of the vertebral end-plate is mostly water and proteoglycan. As we move towards the periphery, more collagen and fewer proteoglycans are seen. This similarity in biochemical makeup helps diffuse nutrients between the subchondral bone of the vertebra and the vertebral endplate of the disc.

How The Spinal Disc Gets Damaged?

As the day progresses, our discs will start to compress, like squeezing out a sponge. When axial loading of the spine increases, the spinal disc expels water and nutrients. The continued axial loading of the spine has been shown to increase diffusion’s outward rate and decrease the inward diffusion of fluids and nutrients to the discal cells. This change in diffusion rate can vary depending on intensity, length, and type of axial load-bearing activity. Mild axial loading translates into a 1.5mm disc height reduction, which correlates with a 12% fluid loss from the annulus and a 5% fluid (water and nutrients) loss from the nucleus.

As a result of prolonged axial loading, fluid loss increases intradiscal pressure (the pressure inside the disc). Any time the intradiscal pressure exceeds diastolic blood pressure, infusion of nutrients and oxygen into the disc stops. The average intradiscal weight in a non-load-bearing condition is 70mm Hg.

Prolonged axial loading (creep loading) has a detrimental impact on the spinal disc structures. The most significant impact of creep loading known is the increase in intradiscal pressure. An increase in the intradiscal pressure can lead to:

  • Annulus and nucleus dehydration as a result of fluid loss.
  • The Loss of nutrients.
  • Loss of proteoglycans leads to degradation of the aggrecan molecules, with smaller fragments readily leaching from the spinal disc tissues. The most significant biochemical change to occur in disc degeneration is the loss of proteoglycans.

Proteoglycan And Spinal Disc Damage

As mentioned earlier, proteoglycans are the building blocks of the aggrecan molecules.

The chondrocyte-like cells of the nucleus and inner annulus manufacture proteoglycans. A disruption in the flow of nutrients will dramatically impact a disc’s ability to maintain homeostasis, leading to a decrease in the production of proteoglycans and an eventual degeneration of the vertebral disc.

The loss of proteoglycans in degenerated discs has a significant impact on the disc‘s load-bearing behavior. With the loss of proteoglycans, the disc falls’ osmotic pressure, and the disc is less able to maintain hydration under load. Degenerated discs have lower water content than normal healthy discs; when loaded, they lose height and fluids more rapidly and tend to bulge or, worse, herniate. The degenerated disc is the leading cause of disc herniation.

Loss Of Proteoglycans Is The Primary Factor In Spinal Disc Degeneration

Loss of proteoglycans and matrix disorganization have other important mechanical effects; because of the subsequent loss of hydration, Degenerated discs no longer behave hydrostatically under load. Loading may then lead to inappropriate stress concentrations along the vertebral end-plate or in the annulus.

Published medical research that assessed disc hydrations through MRI exams showed correlations between disc degeneration and proteoglycan level. Loss of hydrostatic behavior strongly influences other spinal structures and may affect their function and predispose them to injury. For instance, loss of disc height may subject the apophyseal joints to abnormal loads, leading to an eventual osteoarthritic change along the joint surface.

Loss of disc height can also reduce the tensional forces on the ligamentum flavum. It may cause remodeling and thickening of the ligamentum flavum, which leads to a loss of elasticity. With the loss of elasticity, ligamentum flavum tends to hypertrophy (thickened) into the spinal canal, leading to Spinal Stenosis.

illustration of a large herniated disc Prolonged “axial load-bearing,” repetitive movements, and traumatic activities can tear the fibers of the annular ligaments.

These tears weaken the annular ligament, allowing the nucleus to migrate. This migration can lead to a more serious condition such as a disc bulge, or worse, a disc herniation (slipped disc).

Today, the most common disc disorder presenting to spinal surgeons is a herniated or prolapsed disc or slipped disc (intervertebral disc). In these cases, the discs bulge or rupture (either partially or totally) posteriorly or posterolaterally and press on the nerve roots in the spinal canal or the foramina. A healthy disc does not herniate as easily as previously believed. Some degenerative changes are necessary before a disc can herniate.

Mechanically induced rupture of a healthy spinal disc is accomplished in vitro (controlled laboratory testing) by mechanical forces larger than those ever normally encountered; in most experimental tests, the vertebral body failed rather than the disc.

Spinal Decompression Therapy Is Better Than Traction.

Advanced Spinal Decompression Therapy Can Heal & Repair THe Spinal Disc.

various types of spinal disc damage shown

Disc Decompression Therapy is Best For The Spinal Disc

Lower back and neck pain can have many causes. Back pain impacts up to 80% of the population. Neck and back pain treatments are often flawed, frequently painful, and can be exceedingly expensive.

The spine consists of individual small bones called vertebrae stacked on top of one another to form the spinal column. Spinal discs are cushions found between each vertebra. The problem with a disc is that it can pinch or irritate a nerve from the spinal cord resulting in pain that affects the arms (if the problem is occurring in the neck) or the legs (sciatica-like symptoms associated with lower back-related issues). Traditionally, it is difficult to treat people with disc-related problems like degenerations, bulges, and herniations.

Research has proven that spinal discs and ligaments have a poor blood supply. The blood supply available to these areas is sufficient to maintain a healthy disc or healthy ligament. However, when the injury occurs, the need for additional nutrients (blood flow) rises significantly. This need is directly related to the degree of damage and malfunction.

Discs, just like any other area in our body, require nutrients to repair and rejuvenate. These nutrients are available to a spinal disc from blood vessels and the circulation of joint fluids near the disc. The most successful method of treating a disc-related problem is best by enhancing the availability of nutrients. To date, the only method proved to achieve this is non-surgical decompression therapy.

Traction Therapy will Not Fix a Slipped Disc.

Traditionally, it has been difficult to successfully treat people with disc-related problems such as degenerations, bulges, and herniations. Many have tried to implement traction protocols, but they have all failed miserably.

While traction can produce some symptomatic improvement for mild spinal disc issues, it can never repair. Often those that have found relief through traction will experience flare-ups of their condition. In other words, traction can produce some limited improvements but short-lived. The pain will almost always resurface. A flare-up or a recurrence of symptoms is seen with the worsening of a condition. This potential worsens with flare-ups that most surgeons avoid traction for those with spinal disc issues.

In Malaysia, the best and most advanced spinal decompression therapy is through the RxDecom. Chiropractic Specialty Center® are the ONLY ones that utilize the RxDecom we treat patients through Decompression. Visit one of our centers to experience CSC’s award-winning chiropractic, physiotherapy, rehabilitating, and spinal decompression therapy.

Is NSD Therapy® Superior to Traction or DTS Therapy?

Non-Surgical Decompression Therapy (NSD Therapy®) is an alternative to spinal surgery. NSD Therapy® is Incorporates spinal decompression therapy, chiropractic, physiotherapy, and targeted rehabilitation. It is superior to traction or any other method of care that combines traction therapy or DTS. It combines technology and medical science specifically created to assist physicians and healthcare providers in treating and rehabilitating spinal-related ailments without resorting to invasive surgeries.

NSD Therapy® and RxDecom are our technological breakthrough that has allowed Chiro in Malaysia to achieve the best non-invasive in Malaysia. Our centers get results that were, in the past, unthinkable. The most sought-after, most successful non-invasive back therapy in the United States today is decompression therapy. Decompression therapy is an effective treatment for:

  • Herniated Disc
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Posterior Facet Syndrome
  • Sciatica
  • Post-surgical patients

The NSD Therapy® Treatment Can Target A Problematic Spinal Segment

A separation of 5-7mms in the disc space occurs, creating a negative pressure that leads to re-hydration and rapid healing. This non-surgical back and neck treatment is, by far, the most advanced and painless treatment to date. In our clinic, we use this treatment in conjunction with chiropractic care and rehabilitation therapy. A person with a herniated disc, a degenerated disc, or a bulging disc also suffers from joint, ligament, and muscle problems. To achieve maximum medical improvement, it becomes imperative to treat and rehabilitate all damaged areas involved.

Our success rate has been higher than 86%. Most of these patients received treatments through traditional therapies with little to no benefit. Some have even had failed back surgeries. For this reason, we pride ourselves on offering all those who seek our help a complete and well-balanced treatment for neck and back pain.

Do you have a herniated disc, multiple herniated discs, Degenerative Disc Disease, facet syndrome, or any other type of spinal pain problem? Is your medical doctor suggesting surgery or Pain Management? Have you tried chiropractic or physical therapy alone and could not get enough relief? Come to Chiropractic Specialty Center® and try out the Decompression therapy as an additive to your care. At Chiropractic Specialty Center, we combine the knowledge and services of decompression, chiropractic, physical therapy, trigger point therapy, physiotherapy, and nutrition under one roof.

At Chiropractic Specialty Center®: We Fix & Repair Spinal Disc Damage (Slipped Disc) Without Surgery Or Injections!

We have the best chiropractors in Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, and an expert clinical team of physiotherapists. Furthermore, our spine technology is second to none. As a result, our patients get better even when others fail in Malaysia. So, don’t waste time on ineffective methods or systems of care. Opt for CSC’s proven slipped disc treatment. We can and have repaired discs for many.

Our successes have shocked some of the most reputable hospitals in Malaysia. Therefore, we are proud to be the first in Malaysia to have an advanced non-surgical slipped disc treatment method. Our chiropractors‘ and physiotherapists‘ in-depth experience with decompression therapy, along with a firm understanding of disc problems, led to the development of the “five-prong approach”:

  • Low force gentle chiropractic adjustments.
  • Physiotherapy
  • The particular form of neuromuscular massage and trigger point therapy
  • Flexion/distraction treatment or Non-surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy.
  • Specific exercise and nutrition program.

Differences Between Traction, DTS & NSD Therapy® Methods

Traction and DTS machines are modern-day traction devices. These devices provide linear traction. Also, the therapy provided is not targeted to specific segments. Even worse, they lack the needed sensors and specialized programs to monitor the patient during therapy. In short, they fail. In linear traction or DTS therapy, the applied forces are linear or in a straight line. In other words, the treatment given is through a sudden single or multistage pull. This system of treatment is almost as old as back pain itself, dating back some 2000 years. Linear traction ranges from hanging upside down to various “rack” type devices that stretch the body and back.

outdated traction machine

The modern-day traction pulls range from the sudden single-stage “pull and releases” to sudden multistage “pull and releases.” Whatever the setting may be, linear traction is still force applied in a straight line. No sensors monitor the patient, therapy, or tractional forces in a linear traction device. As a result, the treatment evokes the body’s protective response and triggers muscular tightening causing nerve irritation to the point where the therapy is painful and perhaps even harmful to the patient.

Where Can You Get The Best Chiropractic Treatment In Kuala Lumpur?

Chiropractic Specialty Cetner® has several centers throughout the Klang Valley. All our centers have clinical experts who specialize in non-surgical spine care. Before you opt for any physiotherapy, contact us. If you or a family member suffers from chronic neck and back pain, sciatica, slipped disc, scoliosis, or spondylolisthesis, contact us. Let one of our team members assess you. In Kuala Lumpur, we have two locations:

Sri Petaling: Call us on 012 695 6939. Ask to speak with our chiropractor. Our chiropractor in Sri Petaling is one of the most experienced chiropractors in Malaysia. Yama Zafer, D.C., has over 25 years of experience. He is Malaysia’s top chiropractor. He practices in Damansara Heights and at our Sri Petaling center.
Bukit Damansara: Contact us at 017 269 1873 to speak with the best chiropractor in Kuala Lumpur about your spine

Both our Sri Petaling and Bukot Damansra centers are the top chiropractic and physiotherapy centers in town.

RxDecom® Component Of The NSD Therapy® Has Proven Track Record In Reversing A Slipped Disc & Other Spinal Disc Disorders

Non-linear traction, or spinal decompression as given by the RxDecom®, is applied in a smooth arc that gradually builds to the pre-programmed tension over a predetermined period of time as dictated by patient condition.

RxDecom® is the latest form of spinal rehabilitation. It has great therapeutic value and is made possible only through the recent technological advancements in medicine, IT, and robotic engineering. Intradiscal pressure increases with load-bearing activities. Any time this value exceeds diastolic blood pressure, infusion of nutrients and oxygen into the disc stops. The forces are directed, monitored, and controlled through various high-tech sensors that monitor the therapy and the patient’s response to the therapy.

According to medical research, Decompression therapy significantly decreases the intradiscal pressure to harmful levels in the range of -100 to -160mm Hg. Such negative pressure would encourage fluid entry, a needed component for restoring discal hydration and retraction.

To conclude, the RxDecom® and other elements of NSD Therapy® are the best non-surgical spinal disc treatment methods in KL, Malaysia.

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