What Is a Disc Herniation?
Many people hear the term disc herniation after experiencing back pain, neck pain, or sciatica—but aren’t quite sure what it means. If you’ve been asking, “What is a disc herniation?”, you’re not alone.
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we help patients understand spinal conditions clearly and explore natural, non-invasive options to support healing and movement.
Our office is located at 115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA.
Call 610-789-1800 or visit
www.everybodyschiropractic.com
to schedule an appointment.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc—sometimes called a slipped disc or bulging disc—occurs when one of the discs between the bones of the spine becomes damaged.
Spinal discs act like cushions between the vertebrae. Each disc has:
- A tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus)
- A softer, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus)
When the outer layer weakens or tears, the inner material can push outward. This is called a disc herniation. If the disc presses on nearby nerves, it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness.
What Causes a Disc Herniation?
A common search is “What causes a disc herniation?” Disc herniations usually develop over time rather than from one single event.
Common causes include:
- Wear and tear from aging
- Poor posture
- Repetitive bending or lifting
- Sudden twisting movements
- Weak core or spinal support muscles
- Previous spinal injuries
As discs lose hydration and flexibility with age, they become more prone to injury.
What Are the Symptoms of a Disc Herniation?
Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the herniation. A frequent question is “What does a herniated disc feel like?”
Common symptoms include:
- Back pain or neck pain
- Pain that travels into the arm or leg
- Sciatica (pain down the leg)
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Stiffness or limited motion
Some people have disc herniations with little or no pain, while others experience significant discomfort.
Where Do Disc Herniations Most Commonly Occur?
Disc herniations most often occur in:
- The lower back (lumbar spine)
- The neck (cervical spine)
Lumbar disc herniations are a common cause of sciatica, while cervical disc herniations can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and hands.
How Is a Disc Herniation Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed health history and physical examination. A chiropractor evaluates posture, movement, reflexes, and nerve function.
In some cases, imaging such as MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the disc injury.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help a Disc Herniation?
A common question is “Can a chiropractor help a herniated disc?” Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal movement, reducing joint stress, and supporting the body’s natural healing ability.
Chiropractic care may help by:
- Reducing pressure on affected spinal joints
- Improving spinal alignment and mobility
- Supporting nerve function
- Decreasing muscle tension
- Improving posture and movement patterns
Care plans are personalized and may use gentle techniques based on the patient’s condition and comfort level.
Do All Disc Herniations Require Surgery?
No. Many disc herniations improve with conservative care. Surgery is typically considered only when symptoms are severe, progressive, or do not respond to non-invasive treatment.
Chiropractic care is often part of a conservative approach aimed at helping patients avoid more invasive options when possible.
Serving Upper Darby and Surrounding Communities
Everybody’s Chiropractic Center proudly serves patients with disc injuries and spinal conditions from throughout Delaware County, including:
- Upper Darby
- Drexel Hill
- Havertown
- Lansdowne
- Clifton Heights
- Springfield
- Yeadon
- Broomall
- Media
Get Help for Disc Pain Today
If you’re dealing with back pain, neck pain, or nerve symptoms and think a disc herniation may be the cause, you don’t have to handle it alone. Understanding your condition is the first step toward relief.
Call 610-789-1800
Visit www.everybodyschiropractic.com
115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA
Schedule your appointment today and explore a natural, conservative approach to disc herniation care.