Disc Herniation

Disc Herniation Treatment in Austin, TX

Feeling like your spine’s got a mind of its own? Whether it’s a sharp zap down your leg or a nagging ache in your neck, a herniated disc can make everyday life feel like an obstacle course. At our Austin chiropractic and rehabilitation clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating both lumbar and cervical disc herniations — with a detailed, evidence-based approach that gets results.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Your spine is made up of vertebrae stacked like Jenga blocks, with intervertebral discs acting as shock absorbers in between. Each disc has:

• A tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus)

• A soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus)

When the outer layer tears or weakens, the inner material can bulge or leak out — that’s a herniated disc (also called a slipped or ruptured disc). This can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

Cervical vs. Lumbar Herniations

• Cervical (neck): May cause pain radiating into the shoulders, arms, or hands; headaches; or neck stiffness.

• Lumbar (low back): Often causes sciatica — pain shooting down the leg — along with back stiffness or numbness in the feet.

What Causes Disc Herniation?

• Repetitive stress or poor posture

• Lifting with improper mechanics

• Sudden trauma (like a car accident)

• Age-related disc degeneration

• Genetic predisposition or spinal alignment issues

Our Evaluation Process

We start with a thorough review of your medical history, imaging (X-rays, MRIs), and symptom patterns. Then we perform:

• Neurological testing (reflexes, sensation, strength)

• Orthopedic exams 

• Range of motion and postural analysis

• McKenzie Method assessment to identify directional preference

This helps us pinpoint the disc level involved and determine the best course of care.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Research shows that early conservative care for disc herniation:

• Reduces inflammation and nerve irritation

• Improves mobility and function

• Decreases the need for injections or surgery

• Prevents chronic pain and compensatory movement patterns

Delaying care can lead to nerve damage, muscle atrophy, and long-term dysfunction — and nobody wants that.

Our Treatment Approach

We combine the best of chiropractic and rehab to help you heal naturally:

• McKenzie Method (MDT): A proven system of repeated movements and postural correction to centralize and reduce disc pain

• Chiropractic adjustments to restore spinal alignment and reduce joint stress

• Soft tissue therapy (ART, Graston, cupping) to release muscle tension

• Dry needling to calm overactive muscles and reduce inflammation

• Rehabilitative exercises to strengthen your core and stabilize your spine

• Ergonomic coaching to prevent recurrence

Why Choose a Sports Chiropractor?

Sports chiropractors are trained to assess biomechanics, kinetic chains, and neuromuscular control — all of which are essential in disc recovery. We don’t just treat the disc; we retrain the system around it to move better and hurt less.

When to Seek Treatment

• If you have radiating pain, numbness, or tingling

• If your symptoms worsen with sitting, bending, or coughing

• If you’ve been told to “wait and see” — and you’re still waiting

• If you want to avoid surgery and get back to your life

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Most patients begin to feel relief within 2–6 weeks, with full recovery depending on the severity and chronicity of the herniation. We’ll reassess regularly and adjust your plan as you improve.

Let’s Get You Back on Track — Literally

Disc herniation doesn’t have to sideline you. With the right care, you can move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love — without surgery or guesswork.

👉 Call now or book online to schedule your disc evaluation in Austin, TX. Your spine will thank you.