Herniated Disc Treatment

Understanding Disc-Related Pain

Each spinal disc has a tougher outer layer (the annulus) surrounding a softer, gel-like center (the nucleus). A herniation happens when that center pushes outward through a weakened or torn part of the outer layer — sometimes from a single injury like a fall or an accident, sometimes from gradual wear over years that finally gives way under an everyday movement like a lift or a twist. Symptoms depend heavily on whether — and how much — the herniation is irritating a nearby nerve root.

Because a herniated disc can look similar to other sources of back and leg pain on exam alone, imaging often plays a role in confirming what’s actually going on and at which level. Dr. Miller’s training in neuroradiology and MRI lets her review that imaging directly and correlate it with your exam findings, rather than treating the two as separate steps.

Conservative care typically starts with reducing pain and nerve irritation, then moves toward restoring mobility and strength as symptoms improve. Spinal decompression therapy is sometimes part of that plan for appropriate cases. If you develop progressive weakness, or any change in bowel or bladder function, that’s a signal to seek immediate medical evaluation rather than chiropractic care — we’ll always point you toward emergency or surgical evaluation when your symptoms call for it.

SYMPTOMS

Common Signs of a Herniated Disc

Dealing With Disc-Related Pain?

Reach out and we’ll go over what care could look like for your situation.