A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc, is one of the most common conditions to affect the spine. While it can occur anywhere along your spine, it most frequently occurs in the neck or lower back. Discs are essentially small cushions that sit between each of the vertebrae in your spine. When a disc herniates or slips, the disc ruptures, allowing the nerve center to move and become pinched between the vertebrae.

You may have a herniated disc if you’re experiencing back pain, numbness or a tingling sensation in either of your arms or legs or even shooting pains when you make sudden movements, like coughing or sneezing.

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Before our chiropractor can prescribe the best treatment, additional medical tests may be necessary to better diagnose the severity of your slipped disc. These tests can include x-rays, MRIs or cat scans, and are all non-invasive but will help our chiropractor to correctly identify and treat your disc herniation.

The majority of disc herniations do not require surgery, but our chiropractor may prescribe nonsurgical treatments such as bed rest, physical therapy, and even anti-inflammatory medications to help alleviate your pain. If you do require surgery, our chiropractor will discuss the different types of surgical options available to you and answer any questions you may have.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or think you may have a herniated disc, call us today at (732) 295-1211 to request your appointment at Hoffman Family Chiropractic with our chiropractor.

Herniated Disc FAQ

What is a herniated disc?

Your spinal discs are the rubbery cushions sitting between your vertebrae. They have a tough, rubbery exterior (annulus) and a soft, jelly-like center (nucleus). A herniated disc (sometimes called a ruptured or slipped disc) occurs when a crack in the tough outer layer allows some of the soft inner jelly to push out.

What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

Think of a bulging disc like an under-inflated car tire; the disc sags and protrudes outward evenly around its circumference, but the outer layer remains intact. A herniated disc is like a tire blowout; a specific tear forms in the outer wall, and the inner material leaks right through. Because it leaks out, a herniated disc is much more likely to intensely irritate nearby nerve roots.

What causes a disc to herniate?

The most common cause is gradual, age-related wear and tear called disc degeneration. As you age, your discs lose water content, making them less flexible and more prone to tearing.

  • Acute causes: Lifting a heavy object using your back muscles instead of your legs, or twisting forcefully while lifting.
  • Trauma: A fall or a blow to the back can also rupture a disc.

Do I need surgery to fix a herniated disc?

Fortunately, no. Up to 90% of patients find that their herniated disc symptoms disappear over several weeks or months without surgery. The body often naturally breaks down and reabsorbs the protruding disc material over time. Conservative options like physical therapy, chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and targeted anti-inflammatory measures are highly effective at managing symptoms while the body heals itself.