Being told you have a herniated or bulging disc can be scary. The good news is that many disc problems improve without surgery. Dr. Joe uses gentle, non-surgical techniques to help you move again, while watching closely for any sign you need a medical referral.
Herniated vs. bulging discs
Discs are the cushions between the bones of your spine. A bulging disc pushes outward evenly, while a herniated disc has a tear that lets some of the inner material press outward. Either one can irritate nearby nerves and cause back or neck pain, or pain, numbness and tingling down an arm or leg. Disc changes also show up on many MRIs of people with no pain at all, so your exam matters as much as the image.
How Dr. Joe helps
- Flexion-distraction, a gentle table-based technique widely used for low back disc problems
- Low-force Activator and Arthrostim adjusting, with no twisting
- Drop-table adjusting for precise, comfortable adjustments
- Adjustments to the hips, pelvis and mid back so the lower back isn't doing all the work
- Soft tissue work for muscles that tighten to protect the area
Disc problems in the neck get the same gentle approach. See neck pain.
When to see a medical doctor first
Get medical care right away for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, weakness in an arm or leg that's getting worse, or severe pain after a fall or accident. If you've had recent spine surgery, check with your surgeon first.
Frequently asked questions
Will chiropractic make my disc worse?
Dr. Joe chooses techniques based on your exam and avoids positions that aggravate your symptoms. Flexion-distraction and instrument adjusting are gentle options designed with disc patients in mind.
Do I need an MRI?
Not always. If your exam suggests you need imaging, or your symptoms aren't improving as expected, Dr. Joe will refer you out.
Can I keep working out?
Usually, with changes. Dr. Joe can tell you which movements to pause and when it's safe to return to lifting.
Related conditions
Book your first visit
Your first visit is 40 minutes with Dr. Joe and costs $125, including your exam and first adjustment. Follow-up adjustments are $75. Same-day appointments are often available once your new-patient forms are done, and we're open Sundays.
Book online or call (615) 808-9868. See what to expect and pricing.
