Conditions we treat
Herniated & Bulging Discs
The discs between your vertebrae can bulge or herniate under enough pressure or wear over time. We use imaging and targeted traction to work with the disc, not around it.
What's actually happening in the disc
Each disc between your vertebrae has a tougher outer layer surrounding a softer center. A bulge is when that outer layer pushes outward without breaking, and a herniation is when the softer center actually pushes against or through it. Either can irritate nearby nerves, which is often what turns a disc problem into pain that radiates, like sciatica running down the leg.
Discs don't have their own blood supply. They get nutrients through diffusion, driven by the spine loading and unloading throughout the day, which is part of why the right kind of movement and traction supports disc health rather than just resting completely.
What tends to cause it
- A single injury, like a bad lift or a fall
- Years of repetitive load or poor lifting mechanics
- Age-related wear as the disc loses hydration and height
- A spine that's lost its normal curve, changing how weight is distributed through the disc
How we evaluate a suspected disc issue
Digital X-rays and a structural exam give us a strong picture of what's going on and how your spine is loading. If your symptoms suggest a more advanced herniation or significant nerve involvement, we'll be upfront about when advanced imaging like an MRI, or a referral, makes more sense than treating in-office alone.
How we treat it
CBP traction is the tool most specific to a disc issue, using positioning and sustained force to reduce pressure on the disc and create room for it to settle, alongside chiropractic adjustment and physiotherapy to support the correction. Class IV laser is sometimes added where inflammation is a significant part of the picture.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a bulging and a herniated disc?+
A bulge is the outer layer of the disc pushing outward while staying intact. A herniation is when the softer inner material actually breaks through that outer layer. Herniations tend to irritate nearby nerves more directly.
Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?+
Many disc issues respond well to conservative care, including chiropractic adjustment, traction, and physiotherapy. Surgery is typically reserved for cases with significant nerve damage or that haven't responded to conservative treatment over time.
Is traction safe for a herniated disc?+
Applied at the right angle and force, yes, and that's exactly why our traction setup is based on your own imaging rather than a generic setting. We'll adjust the approach if anything doesn't feel right.
Do I need an MRI before starting care?+
Not always. Digital X-rays and a thorough exam are often enough to build a plan. We'll tell you directly if your case looks like it needs advanced imaging first.
Can a disc herniation happen without a specific injury?+
Yes. Many disc issues build gradually from years of load and posture rather than one single moment, which is why people are sometimes surprised to learn how long the underlying problem has actually been there.
Next step
Dealing with herniated & bulging discs?
We'll walk through what's going on and whether this is the right fit for you.
Request an Appointment