How Do I Know If I Have a Disc Herniation? | Upper Darby Chiropractor




How Do I Know If I Have a Disc Herniation?

If you’re dealing with persistent back pain, neck pain, or nerve symptoms, you may be wondering, “How do I know if I have a disc herniation?” Disc herniations are common, but their symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we help patients understand their symptoms and determine whether a disc injury may be contributing to their pain.

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 Disc Herniation?

Before identifying symptoms, it helps to understand what a disc herniation is. Spinal discs sit between the bones of the spine and act as shock absorbers.

A disc herniation occurs when the outer layer of the disc weakens or tears, allowing the inner material to push outward. If this material presses on nearby nerves, symptoms can develop.

Common Symptoms of a Disc Herniation

One of the most searched questions is “What are the symptoms of a disc herniation?” Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the disc injury.

Common signs include:

  • Persistent low back or neck pain
  • Pain that radiates into the arm or leg
  • Sciatica (sharp or burning pain down the leg)
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
  • Muscle weakness
  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting

How Disc Herniation Pain Feels

Many people ask, “What does a disc herniation feel like?” Disc-related pain often has a nerve component.

It may feel:

  • Sharp or shooting
  • Burning
  • Electric or tingling
  • Deep and aching

Pain may increase with coughing, sneezing, or straining due to increased spinal pressure.

Where Disc Herniations Commonly Occur

Disc herniations most often occur in:

  • The lumbar spine (low back)
  • The cervical spine (neck)

Lumbar disc herniations often affect the legs, while cervical disc herniations commonly affect the shoulders, arms, and hands.

Signs Your Pain May Be Disc-Related

Some patterns suggest a disc may be involved rather than muscle strain alone:

  • Pain traveling away from the spine
  • Symptoms on one side of the body
  • Numbness or weakness accompanying pain
  • Pain that does not improve with rest alone

Muscle strains typically improve within days to weeks, while disc-related pain often lingers.

How Is a Disc Herniation Diagnosed?

A common question is “How is a disc herniation diagnosed?” Diagnosis usually starts with a detailed history and physical exam.

A chiropractor evaluates:

  • Spinal motion
  • Posture
  • Reflexes
  • Strength
  • Sensory changes

If needed, imaging such as MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have a Disc Herniation?

If you’re asking “What should I do if I think I have a herniated disc?”, early evaluation is important.

Conservative options often include:

  • Activity modification
  • Improving posture and movement
  • Chiropractic care
  • Targeted exercises
  • Reducing inflammation naturally

Many people improve without surgery when care focuses on restoring movement and reducing nerve irritation.

When to See a Doctor or Chiropractor

You should seek professional care if symptoms:

  • Last more than two weeks
  • Are worsening over time
  • Interfere with daily activities
  • Include numbness or weakness

When to Go to the Emergency Room

Although most disc herniations are not emergencies, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Go to the emergency room if you experience:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Severe or sudden leg weakness
  • Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
  • Severe pain after trauma or accident

These may indicate a serious condition requiring urgent care.

Serving Upper Darby and Surrounding Communities

Everybody’s Chiropractic Center helps patients with disc-related conditions throughout Delaware County, including:

  • Upper Darby
  • Drexel Hill
  • Havertown
  • Lansdowne
  • Clifton Heights
  • Springfield
  • Yeadon
  • Broomall
  • Media

Get Answers About Your Back or Neck Pain

If you think you may have a disc herniation, getting clarity early can help prevent long-term problems. Understanding your symptoms is the first step toward appropriate care.

Call 610-789-1800
Visit www.everybodyschiropractic.com
115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA

Schedule your appointment today to find out what may be causing your symptoms.