Disc Herniation

Lawrence, KS | Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic

A disc herniation, often referred to as a herniated disc, bulging disc, or slipped disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer and irritates nearby nerves. Disc herniations most commonly affect the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine), causing pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and reduced mobility.

At Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic, we provide evidence-based, conservative treatment to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and help patients return to work, sports, and everyday activities without surgery whenever appropriate.

How We Treat Disc Herniations

Every treatment plan is personalized based on your symptoms, examination findings, and overall health. Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

• Chiropractic spinal adjustments to improve joint mobility and reduce mechanical stress when clinically appropriate

• Flexion-distraction therapy to reduce pressure on spinal discs and affected nerve roots

• Manual therapy to decrease muscle tension and improve soft tissue mobility

• Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to address chronic muscle dysfunction and soft tissue pain associated with disc injuries

• Dry needling to reduce muscle guarding and painful trigger points

• Corrective exercises to improve spinal stability, mobility, and long-term function

• Personalized home exercise program focused on movement, posture, and recovery

Our goal is to decrease nerve irritation, restore normal movement, and help prevent future episodes of back or neck pain.

Symptoms of a Disc Herniation

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation but may include:

• Neck or low back pain

• Pain radiating into the arm or leg (sciatica)

• Numbness or tingling

• Muscle weakness

• Pain with prolonged sitting or bending

• Increased pain with coughing or sneezing

• Reduced flexibility or spinal mobility

If you experience progressive weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, or numbness in the groin or saddle region, seek immediate medical attention.

What Causes a Disc Herniation?

Disc herniations may develop from:

• Age-related disc degeneration

• Repetitive lifting or bending

• Poor lifting mechanics

• Sports injuries

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Sudden twisting movements

• Repetitive occupational stress

Many patients improve with conservative treatment and do not require surgery.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your initial evaluation at Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic is designed to determine whether a disc herniation is contributing to your symptoms and whether conservative chiropractic care is appropriate.

Your visit may include:

• Detailed health history and symptom review

• Orthopedic and neurological examination

• Range of motion assessment

• Strength, sensation, and reflex testing

• Functional movement evaluation

• Personalized treatment recommendations

If advanced imaging such as an MRI or referral to another healthcare provider is indicated, we will help coordinate the next step in your care.

Why Choose Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic?

Our chiropractors use a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treating disc herniations. Depending on your condition, your care may include chiropractic adjustments, flexion-distraction therapy, manual therapy, Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), dry needling, and corrective exercises to help relieve pain and restore function.

Our treatment plans are designed to:

• Reduce neck and back pain

• Decrease nerve irritation

• Improve mobility and flexibility

• Restore strength and function

• Help prevent future flare-ups

• Help patients avoid unnecessary medications or surgery whenever possible