Disc Herniations

If I have a herniated disc, does that mean I have to have surgery?

Disc herniations are actually more common than most people think. Well over 50% of adults  have disc herniations. Of these, a large percentage, are actually pain free.

The most common types of disc herniations are: neck and low back. Herniations can be asymptomatic, mild, or severe. In the neck, a person can experience mild to severe pain radiating down the arm to the fingertips.  Low back herniations can also be mild or so severe that it produces pain down the leg into the feet and toes.  

While chiropractors don’t specifically  treat any one condition, many patients with herniations have been able to improve their lives with chiropractic care.  In addition to chiropractic adjustments, decompression is another useful tool we use to help with herniations.

The first step a person with a herniation should take is to consult with a chiropractor who takes motion study xrays along with a complete history and exam.  After completing these steps, a competent and qualified chiropractor will be able to determine the proper course of action.