What Is a Herniated Disc?
Your spine is made up of vertebrae separated by rubbery discs that act as shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer shell (annulus fibrosus) and a soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus). A herniated disc occurs when the outer shell tears and the inner material pushes outward, pressing on nearby spinal nerves.
Disc herniations most commonly occur in the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck). They can produce intense local pain, radiating nerve pain (like sciatica), numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the extremities.
While some herniated discs heal on their own with time, many require professional intervention to manage pain and prevent further damage. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective non-surgical approaches.
Herniated Disc Symptoms
What Causes Disc Herniations?
Auto Accidents
The compressive and shearing forces of a car crash are one of the most common causes of acute disc herniations, particularly in the cervical and lumbar spine.
Heavy Lifting
Lifting with your back instead of your legs, or twisting while lifting, puts enormous pressure on lumbar discs and can cause immediate herniation.
Degenerative Wear
As we age, discs lose water content and become less flexible. This makes them more susceptible to tearing from even minor strains or twisting motions.
Repetitive Strain
Jobs or activities that involve repeated bending, twisting, or vibration (like driving commercial vehicles) gradually weaken disc walls over time.
Genetics & Body Weight
Some people are genetically predisposed to disc degeneration. Excess body weight also increases the load on spinal discs, accelerating wear.
How We Treat Herniated Discs
Spinal Decompression
Controlled traction creates negative intradiscal pressure, encouraging the herniated material to retract and relieving nerve compression.
Flexion-Distraction Technique
A specialized table gently stretches and flexes the spine in a rhythmic motion, increasing disc space and improving nutrient flow to the damaged disc.
Targeted Adjustments
Low-force adjustments to restore proper vertebral alignment and take pressure off the affected nerve root.
Rehabilitation Protocol
Core strengthening and McKenzie exercises to support the spine, reduce disc loading, and prevent re-herniation.
MRI Coordination
We refer for advanced imaging when needed to confirm disc herniation location and severity before planning treatment.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- ⚠ Loss of bladder or bowel control (cauda equina syndrome — emergency)
- ⚠ Rapidly worsening weakness in both legs
- ⚠ Complete numbness in the saddle area
- ⚠ Inability to stand or walk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help a herniated disc?
Yes. Chiropractic care — especially spinal decompression and flexion-distraction — is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for herniated discs.
How long does it take to heal a herniated disc?
Most patients see significant improvement in 6–12 weeks. Complete healing of the disc can take 3–6 months depending on severity.
Can a car accident cause a herniated disc?
Absolutely. The impact forces can rupture disc walls instantly, even in low-speed collisions.
Do I need surgery for a herniated disc?
Most herniated discs respond to conservative care. Surgery is typically reserved for cases with progressive neurological deficits or failed conservative treatment.
What makes your clinic different for disc injuries?
Dr. Crifase's advanced credentials and our Injury Care Network allow us to coordinate MRI, specialist referrals, and comprehensive documentation under one roof.