Can Chiropractic Care Help with Herniated Discs? Understanding the Benefits and Limitations

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, can cause persistent pain, reduced mobility, and nerve irritation. For individuals experiencing discomfort due to a herniated disc, finding an effective, non-invasive treatment is often a priority.

Chiropractic care is commonly sought for spinal conditions, but how effective is it for herniated discs? This blog explores the role of chiropractic care in managing herniated discs, including potential benefits, limitations, and whether it may be a suitable treatment for your condition.

The spinal discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, helping with flexibility and movement. When a disc becomes damaged or weakened, the soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) may push through the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus), resulting in a herniated disc.

Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc:

✔ Back or neck pain (depending on the affected area of the spine) ✔ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs ✔ Pain with cough or sneeze ✔ Pain that worsens with forward bending or prolonged sitting ✔ Sciatica (radiating pain down the leg) when the herniation affects the lower back

Herniated discs can develop due to age-related degeneration, improper lifting techniques, or traumatic injuries. Treatment options vary, and chiropractic care is one approach that some individuals explore for relief.

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive approach that focuses on spinal health and mobility. Chiropractors use various techniques to restore movement, reduce nerve irritation, and support spinal function.

A systematic review of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) suggests that manual therapy techniques may provide relief for certain spinal conditions, though results can vary based on individual cases.

How Chiropractic Care May Help:

• Spinal adjustments & mobilization techniques – May help reduce disc pressure and pressure on surrounding nerves by supporting spinal alignment.
• Flexion-Distraction Therapy – A technique used to reduce disc pressure and alleviate nerve irritation.
• Soft tissue therapy – Addresses muscle tension that may contribute to pain.
• Rehabilitation exercises – Strengthening exercises can help stabilize the spine and support recovery.
• Postural education & lifestyle recommendations – Encourages movement habits that may help prevent future injury.

Chiropractors develop individualized care plans based on each patient’s specific condition. However, chiropractic care is not a cure for herniated discs, and treatment should be approached cautiously for individuals with severe cases or nerve compression syndromes.

A chiropractor may use several techniques to help manage herniated disc symptoms, including:

1. Spinal Mobilization & Adjustments

• Low-force techniques may help support spinal mobility.
• Adjustments are tailored to each patient’s comfort level.

2. Flexion-Distraction Therapy

• A gentle, non-thrusting technique used to reduce spinal pressure.
• Commonly applied to lumbar (lower back) disc herniations.

3. Soft Tissue Therapy / Dry needling

• Addresses muscle tightness and imbalances around the affected area.
• Helps reduce strain on the spine and improve mobility.

4. Exercise & Rehabilitation Plans

• Chiropractors may recommend core-strengthening and flexibility exercises.
• These programs support long-term spinal stability and reduce strain on discs.

Not all techniques are appropriate for every patient, and a thorough assessment is necessary before beginning chiropractic treatment.

While some patients find relief with chiropractic care, it is not the only treatment option for herniated discs. Other approaches include:

• Physical therapy – Focuses on targeted exercises and movement strategies.
• Pain management (NSAIDs, epidural injections) – Can provide temporary relief but does not address underlying biomechanical issues.
• Surgical intervention – Recommended only for severe cases where nerve compression causes significant disability.

A multidisciplinary approach may be beneficial, and chiropractors often collaborate with medical doctors and physical therapists when needed.

Chiropractic care may not be suitable for certain cases of herniated discs, including:

• Severe nerve compression (causing loss of bowel/bladder control)
• Spinal fractures or instability
• Progressive neurological symptoms (e.g., significant weakness or numbness in limbs)
• Post-surgical complications (such as spinal fusion instability)

If any of these conditions are present, immediate medical evaluation is necessary. Diagnostic imaging (MRI or X-ray) is often used to determine the severity of disc herniation before starting chiropractic care.

For individuals with mild to moderate herniated discs, chiropractic care may provide:

✔ Pain relief – Some patients experience reduced nerve irritation and improved spinal mobility. ✔ Improved flexibility – Techniques may support movement efficiency and spinal function. ✔ Non-invasive approach – Offers an alternative to surgery and long-term medication use. ✔ Personalized care – Treatment is tailored to the patient’s condition and goals.

Results vary among individuals, and chiropractic care should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes exercise, movement modifications, and medical supervision when necessary.

Chiropractic care may be a viable option for some individuals with herniated discs, especially those seeking non-invasive pain management. However, the effectiveness of treatment varies, and a thorough clinical evaluation by your chiropractor is necessary to determine the best approach.

If you are experiencing back pain, radiating nerve discomfort, or mobility restrictions, consulting with a chiropractor may help you understand whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition.

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References:

1. Oliphant, D. (2004). Safety of spinal manipulation in the treatment of lumbar disk herniations: a systematic review and risk assessment. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 27(3), 197-210. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1en.wikipedia.org+1
2. Snelling, N. J. (2006). Spinal manipulation in patients with disc herniation: a critical review of risk and benefit. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 9(3), 77-84. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1en.wikipedia.org+1
3. McMorland, G., Suter, E., Casha, S., du Plessis, S. J., & Hurlbert, R. J. (2010). Manipulation or microdiskectomy for sciatica? A prospective randomized clinical study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(8), 576-584. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21036279/

Disclaimer:

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary.