Help for Herniated and Bulging Discs

Available at Lake Worth, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach

The spinal discs sit between each vertebra, acting as shock absorbers that allow your spine to bend, twist, and bear load. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like center. A bulging disc occurs when the outer layer weakens and expands beyond its normal boundary. A herniated disc is more severe, involving a tear that allows the inner material to push through.

Both conditions can compress nearby spinal nerves, triggering symptoms that extend well beyond the back itself.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the disc injury. Common signs include:

Sharp or burning pain that radiates down one leg, often recognized as sciatica
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, or hands
Muscle spasms or a noticeable reduction in range of motion
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, bending forward, or coughing
Affected reflexes or muscle weakness during everyday tasks

What Causes Disc Injuries

Discs naturally lose water content and elasticity with age, making them more vulnerable over time. Prolonged sitting, poor posture, repetitive spinal loading, and improper lifting mechanics all accelerate disc breakdown. Excess body weight increases compressive forces on the lumbar spine daily. A single traumatic event such as a fall or auto accident can also cause an acute disc injury, even in an otherwise healthy spine.

How Midtown Clinic of Chiropractic Treats Disc Injuries

At our practice, we take a conservative-first approach with the goal of reducing pain, restoring function, and preventing recurrence without surgery. Treatment plans are built around each patient’s imaging findings, neurological symptoms, and lifestyle demands and may include any combination of the following:

Non-surgical spinal decompression gently reduces pressure within injured discs to support natural healing.
Targeted chiropractic adjustments restore motion and reduce nerve irritation without aggravating the disc.
Shockwave therapy stimulates circulation and accelerates tissue recovery.
Pain-to-function rehabilitation uses guided core stabilization and spinal endurance training to build lasting stability.
Home care coaching covers posture, lifting mechanics, and daily movement strategies for long-term improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?

Yes. The majority of herniated disc cases resolve with conservative care. Spinal decompression and chiropractic adjustments have helped many patients return to full function without surgical intervention.

How long does recovery take?

It varies based on injury severity and consistency with care. Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks, with a complete plan typically spanning several months including progressive rehabilitation.

Is chiropractic care safe for disc injuries?

Yes, when guided by a thorough evaluation. Our adjustments for disc cases are precise and low-force, designed specifically to avoid aggravating the affected disc.

What if conservative care is not enough?

If your condition requires care beyond what we provide, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist. Your outcome matters more than keeping you in our office.

Ready to Get to the Root of Your Disc Pain?

Midtown Clinic of Chiropractic serves patients across South Florida from our Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, and Boca Raton locations. New patients receive a full exam, consultation, and X-rays for just $85. Call us or book online today.

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