What a herniated disc is
Spinal discs are cushions between the vertebrae, with a tough outer ring and a softer center. A bulging disc pushes outward while staying contained; a herniated disc is when the inner material breaks through the outer ring. When that material contacts a nerve root, it produces the pain, numbness, or weakness people feel — often more in the limb than the back itself.
What causes it
Discs herniate from a mix of wear and load:
- Age-related changes that make the outer ring more brittle over time
- Lifting or twisting under load, especially with poor mechanics
- Repetitive strain from work or sport
- Sudden trauma, including auto accidents
Symptoms and when to seek care
Herniated discs in the low back often cause sciatica; in the neck they can radiate into the arm. Localized pain, radiating pain, numbness, and weakness are the hallmark symptoms.
Progressive or significant muscle weakness, numbness in the saddle region, or any loss of bladder/bowel control. These warrant immediate evaluation.
How chiropractic helps
Most herniated discs do not require surgery. Cox flexion-distraction decompression is specifically designed for disc conditions and is designed to take pressure off the disc and irritated nerves. It's a conservative, non-surgical option with decades of clinical research behind it.
Herniated disc care at our Clinton, NJ office
With three dedicated Cox tables and DTS spinal decompression on-site, we're equipped to treat disc patients at volume without long waits. Your doctor uses examination and same-day digital X-ray to confirm the level involved, and explains honestly whether decompression is appropriate — or whether your case warrants a surgical consult.
What to expect from treatment
How many visits you need depends on your exam. We'll tell you what we recommend and why.