Back pain that shoots down your leg. Neck pain that travels into your arm. Numbness that won’t go away. These symptoms are often linked to a herniated disc — a common but painful spinal condition that can disrupt everyday life.
If you’ve been told you have a herniated disc, you may be wondering:
Do I need surgery? Will this heal on its own? Can chiropractic care help?
At Align Health & Wellness, we believe in conservative, personalized care that supports your body’s natural healing process. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Your spine is made up of vertebrae separated by soft, cushion-like discs. These discs act as shock absorbers, allowing flexibility and movement.
Each disc has:
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A tough outer layer (annulus)
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A soft, gel-like center (nucleus)
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel pushes through a weakened or torn outer layer. When this material presses against nearby nerves, it can cause inflammation and pain.
Herniated discs most commonly occur in:
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The lower back (lumbar spine) – often causing sciatica
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The neck (cervical spine) – often causing arm pain or tingling
Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. You may experience:
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Sharp or burning back pain
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Pain radiating into the leg or arm
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Numbness or tingling
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Muscle weakness
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Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing
Some people have disc herniations without severe pain, while others experience significant discomfort that limits daily activities.
What Causes a Herniated Disc?
Several factors can contribute to disc injury:
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Poor posture
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Repetitive bending or lifting
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Sedentary lifestyle
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Sudden trauma or accidents
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Age-related degeneration
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Weak core muscles
Over time, spinal discs naturally lose hydration and elasticity, making them more vulnerable to injury.
Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Yes — in many cases, chiropractic treatment can be an effective, non-surgical option for managing herniated disc symptoms.
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring spinal alignment, reducing nerve irritation, and improving mobility without medications or invasive procedures.
At Align Health & Wellness, treatment plans are customized based on your specific condition and comfort level.
Chiropractic Techniques for Herniated Discs
1. Gentle Spinal Adjustments
Carefully applied adjustments can help improve spinal motion and reduce pressure on affected nerves. Techniques are modified to ensure safety and comfort.
2. Flexion-Distraction Therapy
This gentle, rhythmic stretching technique reduces pressure within the disc and may help relieve nerve compression.
3. Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical decompression creates space between vertebrae, encouraging better disc function and reducing irritation.
4. Soft Tissue Therapy
Muscle tension often develops around injured discs. Releasing tight muscles improves circulation and reduces stress on the spine.
5. Corrective Exercises
Strengthening the core and stabilizing muscles is essential for long-term recovery. Specific exercises help prevent re-injury and support spinal health.
Benefits of Choosing Chiropractic Care
Many patients choose chiropractic treatment because it offers:
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Drug-free pain relief
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Improved mobility and flexibility
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Reduced inflammation
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Enhanced nerve function
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A personalized, whole-body approach
The goal is not just symptom relief — it’s restoring proper spinal function so your body can heal more efficiently.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery may be recommended if there is:
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Severe muscle weakness
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Loss of bowel or bladder control
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Progressive neurological symptoms
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Pain that does not respond to conservative care
However, many herniated discs improve with non-surgical treatment, making chiropractic care an excellent first step.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your chiropractor will begin with:
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A detailed health history
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Physical and neurological examination
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Possible imaging review (if available)
From there, a personalized care plan is developed based on your goals, lifestyle, and severity of symptoms.
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients experience noticeable improvement within weeks when consistent with care and home exercises.
Preventing Future Disc Problems
Once symptoms improve, prevention becomes key. Protect your spine by:
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Maintaining proper posture
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Strengthening core muscles
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Staying active
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Using proper lifting techniques
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Avoiding prolonged sitting
Long-term spinal health is built through consistent habits and professional guidance.
Final Thoughts
A herniated disc can feel overwhelming, but surgery is not always the first or only option. Chiropractic care offers a safe, conservative approach designed to relieve pain, restore function, and support long-term wellness.
If you’re experiencing back or neck pain related to a herniated disc, the team at Align Health & Wellness is here to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to living comfortably.
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let disc pain control your life. Early treatment can make a significant difference in your recovery and long-term spinal health.
Book your appointment with our chiropractor in West Windsor, NJ today and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved mobility. Our team is ready to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Call us or schedule online to get started. Your path to pain relief begins here.