Can a Chiropractor Fix a Herniated Disc?

Yes, a chiropractor can help many patients with a herniated disc, though not in every case. Studies show that 80–90% of disc herniations improve without surgery, and chiropractic care plays an important role in conservative recovery.

Chiropractic treatment is most effective for mild to moderate disc herniations, where non-invasive techniques relieve pain, reduce nerve pressure, and restore spinal function.

In severe cases with neurological warning signs such as loss of bladder or bowel control, or rapidly worsening muscle weakness, urgent medical or surgical care is needed to protect long-term nerve health.

👉 In this article, we will explain what a herniated disc is, its symptoms and causes, and how a chiropractor may help you find relief and restore long-term spinal health.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer, often compressing nearby nerves.

Discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, and when one herniates, it can cause pain and dysfunction along the spine.

It is important to distinguish between conditions:

• Bulging disc: The disc protrudes outward but remains intact.

• Herniated or slipped disc: The inner gel leaks out, irritating or compressing nerves.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

• Lower back or neck pain.

• Sciatica from a herniated disc (radiating leg pain).

• Numbness or tingling.

• Muscle weakness.

Causes of a Herniated Disc

• Natural age-related degeneration.

• Repetitive strain or poor posture.

• Sudden injury or trauma.

👉 Herniated discs can develop in both the lumbar spine (lower back) and the cervical spine (neck). Lumbar cases often lead to sciatica, while cervical herniations may cause arm pain, numbness, or weakness.

Both types generally respond well to chiropractic care, with treatment customized to the location and severity of the problem. Next, let’s explore how chiropractors safely and effectively address these disc issues.

How Can a Chiropractor Help With a Herniated Disc?

Spinal Adjustments

Flexion-Distraction Therapy: Chiropractors utilize a specialized traction table to gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure that decompresses nerves, reduces disc bulging, and restores spinal mobility.

Pelvic Blocking: Cushioned wedges placed under the pelvis help realign the lower spine, relieve tension, and reduce pressure on discs, supporting natural recovery and spinal stability.

Non-Force Techniques

For patients with acute pain or heightened sensitivity:

Activator Method: A handheld device delivers gentle, precise impulses to restore spinal motion and reduce localized irritation.

Cox Flexion-Distraction (low-force mobilization): Controlled stretching creates space between vertebrae, easing nerve decompression and encouraging disc material to retract.

Spinal Decompression Therapy: Sustained stretching lowers intradiscal pressure, allowing herniated material to move away from nerves and reducing inflammation.

Complementary Therapies

Posture correction and targeted exercises that strengthen core stability, restore alignment, and prevent disc relapses.

Mirror-image exercises and ergonomic coaching to balance spinal mechanics and reduce daily strain on discs.

Stretching and mobility routines that maintain spinal flexibility and support long-term healing.

👉 At Axis Chiropractic, our team specializes in Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP), a science-based method that goes beyond temporary pain relief to restore long-term alignment and health.

Chiropractic Care for Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) often co-occurs with herniated discs, as aging discs lose their hydration and elasticity, leading to degeneration.

This makes them more vulnerable to bulging or herniation. Chiropractic care for DDD focuses on:

• Restoring spinal alignment to reduce stress on weakened discs.

• Improving mobility to slow further degeneration.

• Reducing inflammation and nerve irritation linked to disc breakdown.

👉 By addressing both herniated discs and degenerative disc disease, chiropractic care provides a comprehensive, non-invasive solution for long-term spinal health.

What to Expect from Chiropractic Care

Evaluation

Your chiropractor reviews your medical history, performs a physical exam, and may order imaging (X-ray or MRI) to determine disc severity.

Treatment Plan

Many patients begin with 2–3 visits per week, tapering as symptoms improve. Relief often begins within several sessions, with most patients noticing improvement within 6 to 12 weeks.

Session Experience

Patients lie on specialized tables while chiropractors apply gentle, controlled, and targeted adjustments. Treatment is customized continuously based on progress.

👉 Looking for safe, non-invasive relief from a herniated disc? Schedule a consultation with our Charleston team today.

Chiropractic Care vs. Other Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Chiropractor Fix a Herniated Disc in the Neck?

Yes. Gentle, non-force cervical adjustments can relieve disc pressure, though severe cases may require referral to a specialist.

Can Chiropractic Make a Herniated Disc Worse?

Yes, but very rarely. In most cases, chiropractors carefully screen patients and use safe, gentle methods to relieve pain and protect spinal health.

Can a Chiropractor Diagnose a Herniated Disc?

Yes. Chiropractors use a patient’s medical history, physical examination, and, if necessary, imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRI scans.

Is Chiropractic Good for Degenerative Disc Disease?

Yes, especially in early to moderate stages. Chiropractic care enhances mobility, reduces inflammation, and slows the progression of further degeneration.

Can Chiropractic Prevent Future Disc Problems?

Yes. Through posture correction, long-term spinal health strengthening, and ongoing care, chiropractic reduces spinal stress and lowers the risk of recurrence.

👉 Beyond immediate treatment, many patients also want to know how chiropractic care can prevent future disc problems and protect spinal health in the long run.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Prevent Future Disc Problems

Chiropractic care doesn’t just treat current pain; it helps prevent future disc issues. By restoring alignment and improving posture, patients can:

• Maintain disc hydration and mobility to lower the risk of further herniation.

• Reduce inflammation and nerve irritation through balanced spinal mechanics.

• Strengthen supporting muscles to stabilize the spine and prevent relapses.

Expert Chiropractor in Charleston, SC

At Axis Chiropractic, Dr. Lee Russo (24+ years of experience, CBP certified) leads a team specializing in spinal rehabilitation and posture correction. With advanced tools, evidence-based CBP protocols, and personalized care plans, our clinic helps patients of all ages achieve long-term spinal health.

📌 If you’re struggling with back pain or sciatica from a herniated disc, schedule a consultation today with Axis Chiropractic in Charleston, SC