What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. When this happens, the disc material can irritate nearby nerves, creating pain that may stay in the back or travel into the hips, legs, or ribs depending on the affected region.
Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lumbar spine, but they can also develop in the mid-back or neck. Without proper care, inflammation, restricted movement, and muscle guarding can keep the cycle of pain going.
Many patients first notice symptoms while lifting, bending, twisting, or after a period of prolonged sitting or poor posture. Others experience no obvious injury, only a gradual increase in stiffness or discomfort that eventually becomes painful.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
- Sharp or shooting pain in the back
- Pain radiating down the leg (sciatica) or into the ribs or chest
- Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation
- Back tightness or stiffness that limits movement
- Muscle weakness in the legs, hips, or upper back
- Worsening pain with sitting, bending, or lifting
A herniated disc may also cause recurring episodes of “thrown out” back, back spasms, or stiffness that makes normal activities harder.
What Causes a Herniated Disc?
While herniated discs can occur after a sudden injury, most develop over time due to:
- Poor posture and prolonged sitting
- Repetitive bending, lifting, or twisting
- Weak core or spinal stabilizer muscles
- Age-related disc changes
- Previous back injuries
- Muscle imbalance or spinal misalignment
Often, a herniated disc is the result of multiple factors building over time—not one dramatic moment. This is why a thorough evaluation is essential for proper recovery.
How Chiropractors Diagnose Herniated Discs
At Aligned Modern Health, chiropractic evaluation begins with a detailed, hands-on exam to determine whether your symptoms are disc-related and which structures are involved. Our chiropractic physicians perform:
- Orthopedic and neurological testing
- Posture and movement analysis
- Assessment of nerve irritation and muscular tension
- Palpation of the spine and surrounding tissues
- Referral for imaging when clinically appropriate
Herniated disc symptoms can overlap with other forms of back pain, so the goal of the evaluation is to confirm the cause and identify the safest, most effective treatment path.
Chiropractic Treatment for Herniated Discs
Chiropractic care helps reduce pressure on the affected disc and surrounding nerves, supporting improved mobility and reduced inflammation. Depending on your symptoms and exam findings, your treatment plan may include:
- Spinal adjustments to restore healthy motion and relieve joint restriction
- Flexion-distraction techniques commonly used for disc injuries to gently reduce pressure
- Soft tissue therapy to ease tight muscles that worsen nerve irritation
- Rehabilitative exercises to strengthen stabilizers and prevent re-injury
- Posture and ergonomic coaching to support long-term spine health
Chiropractic care can also work alongside Functional Medicine or Acupuncture for patients experiencing inflammation, chronic stress, or recurring patterns of pain.
Many patients experience meaningful improvement with consistent care and targeted rehabilitation—not just short-term relief, but healthier movement patterns that support long-term recovery.
How Herniated Discs Connect to Other Back Conditions
Disc issues often overlap with other symptoms and conditions, including:
Because the spine functions as one interconnected system, addressing the disc itself—along with surrounding joints and muscles—is essential for lasting improvement.
When to Seek Care for a Herniated Disc
Schedule an evaluation if:
- You have radiating leg pain, numbness, or tingling
- Back pain worsens with bending, sitting, or lifting
- You feel recurring stiffness or limited mobility
- You have sudden weakness in the legs
- Pain persists longer than a few weeks
Immediate medical attention is recommended if you experience bowel or bladder changes, sudden numbness in the groin, or severe, progressive weakness.
Chiropractic Care at Aligned Modern Health
Our Chiropractic Care team focuses on restoring function, reducing pain, and helping you return to normal movement without relying on medication or surgery. From your first exam to your personalized treatment plan, your care is designed to address both immediate discomfort and the long-term health of your spine.
If you are ready to understand what is driving your pain and start moving more comfortably again, our chiropractic physicians are here to help.
